Cleveland Cavaliers likely to sign Larry Sanders, talking with big man's agent

The Cleveland Cavaliers (39-16) are in talks with free agent centre Larry Sanders, who is trying to make a comeback to the NBA since he last played with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2014-15. The 6-foot-11 rim protector has worked out for several teams over the last few weeks, per reports.

The Cavaliers have a big hole to fill at the 5 spot. While Tristan Thompson is the starting centre, the defending champions have struggled for second unit rim protection since Chris Andersen suffered a season-ending injury to his right knee during a practice session last December. Cleveland are desperate for a reliable back-up centre since stretch-5 Channing Frye has been filling that role in recent months.

According to Amico Hoops, Sanders is leaning towards signing with the Cavaliers after drawing interest from more than 15 teams. "Sources said there is no deal yet between the Cavs and Sanders, but Sanders has made it known he would prefer to play for the Cavs over the other teams showing interest. More than 15 teams have explored signing Sanders so far this season, sources said.

Larry Sanders to Cavs? Big man seen arriving in Cleveland

"The Cavs want to take a good look at Sanders and likely intend to have him conduct a workout," Sam Amico reported Wednesday before noting that pictures of the former Virginia Commonwealth standout arriving in Cleveland were posted to social media a day before. Sanders had recently worked out for half a dozen teams in a private facility in Miami.

Joel Bell, Sanders' agent, told The Journal Times last week that his client was hoping to finalise a deal after the All-Star break. “It (the workouts) went very well. They (team officials) had as much time as they wanted to work on certain drills with Larry or to talk to him. A lot of teams have expressed interest in Larry. We already have one offer on the table. We should have something done at some point, probably by the All-Star break," Bell was quoted as saying.

Larry Sanders could prove to be a handful for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Over the past few seasons, Timofey Mozgov's presence helped the Cavaliers' second unit rim protection. However, the Cavs are still trying to replace Mozgov, who departed for the Los Angeles Lakers in free agency. Stay tuned for the latest news and updates ahead of the NBA Trade Deadline.