Deron Williams set to join Cleveland Cavaliers after getting waived by Dallas Mavericks

Veteran point guard Deron Williams is set to join the Cleveland Cavaliers (39-16) after being waived by the Dallas Mavericks (22-34) in the aftermath of Thursday's NBA trade deadline. While Williams has sought the attention of a number of teams, the former Illinois standout wishes to join the defending champions, per reports.

According to ESPN, Williams has "set his sights on the Cleveland Cavaliers" and is expected to come to terms on a short-term contract. The Cavaliers has been desperately shopping for a point guard to back-up Kyrie Irving after losing Matthew Dellavedova (to free agency) and Mo Williams (to retirement) at the end of last season. Prior to being waived, Williams was in the middle of his best season in years, averaging 13.1 points and 6.9 assists for the Dallas Mavericks from a little under 30 minutes per game.

Deron Williams to Cavs: The ideal back-up PG for champs

Williams wasn't travelling or practising with the Mavs the past two days since the team was attempting to trade him. Even though Williams' former team, the Utah Jazz, expressed interest prior the trade deadline, the Mavs couldn't get a deal done for the former all-star. "The Jazz expressed some interest in reacquiring Williams via trade, but talks never reached a serious stage, sources said. Williams' 5½-season stint in Utah featured four playoff appearances and a trip to the 2007 Western Conference finals but ended with an awkward split when he was traded before the 2011 deadline," ESPN added in its report.

The Cleveland Cavaliers' rotation will be bolstered by the addition of Deron Williams. LeBron James had been clamouring for the Cavs to add an additional playmaker. Williams could be the answer. The Cavs could also acquire Andrew Bogut, who is likely to be bought out of his contract by the Philadelphia 76ers. Stay tuned for the latest news and updates in the aftermath of Thursday's NBA trade deadline.