AOL News has a new home! The Huffington Post.

Click here to visit the new home of AOL News!

Hot on HuffPost:

See More Stories

Cavaliers Take a Swing at Jamario Moon

Jul 19, 2009 – 11:07 PM
Text Size
Matt Moore

Matt Moore %BloggerTitle%

We're at the point where casual fans fail to recognize the remaining names on the free-agency list. There are a few diamonds in the rough, though. Jamario Moon is one of the few remaining gems. Or at least shiny pebbles.

And the Cavs think he would look gold next to their two giant hunks of rock.

The Cavaliers signed Moon to a two-year deal on Friday, ESPN reported Sunday.

Moon, 29, but only a three-year veteran in the NBA, represents a unique opportunity still left on the market. While his numbers (7.1 ppg, 4.5 rebounds) aren't anything to set one's eyes ablaze, he does bring with him tremendous athleticism, work ethic and a fan-friendly ability to, as the kids say, jam.

The Cavs' offer to Moon continues what has already been a big summer for them, as they've jettisoned Ben Wallace and Sasha Pavlovic to get the Big Witness, and have been involved in a discussion with multiple teams for different offers.

Moon provides a departure from Mike Brown's usual assortment of veteran shooters at the small forward position towards what seems to be a new NBA standard. Long, athletic defenders that can get out in transition. It also provides more flexibility for the Cavs to use LeBron James at power forward, and provides an athletic interjection off the bench.

Miami has seven days to match the offer for Moon. That decision will likely hinge on whether the Heat's pitch for Lamar Odom to "come home" works or not. If successful, the Cavs may have their backup small forward. If the Heat are left dangling as the Lakers re-sign Odom to their already incredibly stacked team, Miami will likely match just to maintain a full roster.

Funny how one decision can impact so many teams. But that's the standard this summer.
Filed under: Sports

ON FACEBOOK