The Brooklyn Nets are interested in swapping guard Marcus Thornton for Cleveland Cavaliers’ Jarrett Jack.
The Nets acquired Marcus Thornton before the trade deadline this past season for Jason Terry and Reggie Evans. Thornton has an expiring contract, which is exactly what the Cavaliers have been craving. On the other hand, Jarrett Jack has two more guaranteed years remaining on his contract. However, the Nets do not mind taking on his contract because there is fear that they will be unable to re-sign Shaun Livingston.
The Cavaliers were aggressively seeking a trade for Jarrett Jack during the season but failed to unburden themselves from Jack’s long contract. Jack signed a four-year, $25.2 million deal with the Cavaliers last summer with a team option for the fourth year. He was coming off an excellent season, so the Cavaliers gifted him with a large amount. However, he has not impressed Cleveland after a disappointing season. Hence the Cavaliers continue to actively shop him.
The Nets, meanwhile, are looking for a backup point guard because they’re concerned Shaun Livingston will sign elsewhere for more dollars. The Nets are only able to offer Livingston a three-year, $10 million contract as they are deep into the luxury tax.
Jarrett Jack averaged 9.5 points on 41% shooting this past season while Marcus Thornton averaged 12.3 points on 41.4% shooting for the Nets in 26 games.