The Cleveland Cavaliers and San Antonio Spurs are aggressively pursuing 6-foot-9 forward David West in free agency. The Cleveland Cavaliers reportedly have 'huge interest' in West. Yahoo Sports Adrian Wojnarowski reports that Cleveland, despite a loaded frontcourt, has gained a slight lead in the ongoing sweepstakes over the Spurs at pursuing West.
Kevin Love agreed to a five-year contract with the Cavs, and they are also working on a pricey multi-year deal with Tristan Thompson. And it's highly unlikely LeBron James ever leaves Northeast Ohio. Three highly impactful players who play the power forward position, though, apparently aren't enough for the Cavaliers.
The Spurs and Cavaliers can only pay David West the veteran's minimum. West sacrificed a $12.2 million pay day from the Indiana Pacers for the 2015-2016 NBA season to become a free agent. In an interview earlier this week, the 12-year veteran from Xavier University stressed that winning a title is his utmost goal.
West has never won a championship throughout his career as he has lost multiple times in the Eastern Conference Finals as a member of the Pacers. After coming to terms with LaMarcus Aldridge, San Antonio reportedly intensified its recruitment of West.
David West averaged 11.7 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.4 assists a game for the Pacers last season. West played eight seasons with the New Orleans Hornets and has played four seasons with the Pacers. West, for two seasons, averaged over 20 points a game for the New Orleans Hornets and was also a two-time All-Star for them.
This could make the Cleveland Cavaliers or San Antonio Spurs even more dangerous if they are indeed able to acquire West in free agency. The Cavaliers and Spurs can give David West a good shot at winning the NBA championship. The Washington Wizards were also looking to pursue West but the Spurs and Cavaliers now have the best chance at acquiring him.