Cavaliers Sign Javonte Green Following New Orleans Buyout

CLEVELAND, Ohio — The Cleveland Cavaliers have signed veteran forward Javonte Green following a contract buyout with the New Orleans Pelicans, a move announced Wednesday that significantly bolsters their wing depth ahead of the playoffs.

Green’s departure from the Pelicans comes as the team seeks to revamp its roster during a challenging season. He averaged 5.8 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.1 steals across 50 games this season, providing strong defensive play while starting in 18 contests.

ESPN’s Shams Charania initially broke the news of the buyout, stating, “Javonte Green agrees to a contract buyout with the New Orleans Pelicans and plans on signing with the Cavaliers after he clears waivers.” Green’s addition marks a significant shift as he prepares to join his fourth NBA team since debuting in the league during the 2019-20 season.

Before the All-Star break, Green had a standout performance, filling in for the resting Zion Williamson. He played a season-high 34 minutes in an overtime victory against the Sacramento Kings, recording nine points, seven rebounds, five steals, and two assists. His performance reflects his potential to solidify the Cavaliers’ defensive strategies as they enter the playoff season.

The Cavaliers currently lead the Eastern Conference and are looking to enhance their roster depth. The recent acquisition of forward De'Andre Hunter from the Atlanta Hawks, coupled with Green’s signing, improves their lineup against top competitors, particularly the Boston Celtics, who boast star wings Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. A Cavaliers analyst noted, “Green would provide Cleveland with another wing option against the Celtics’ duo of superstar wings.”

As the season progresses, the need for increased support at the wing position has intensified for the Cavaliers. The team lost both Caris LeVert and Georges Niang in the Hunter trade, creating a need for additional roster spots. Green’s veteran experience and defensive prowess bring added flexibility to the Cavaliers’ strategy.

Green holds a career average of 5.5 points and 3.2 rebounds over 245 games. His arrival is viewed as a critical aspect of the Cavaliers’ strategy to secure the No. 1 seed as they maintain a 5.5 game lead over the Celtics. His defensive abilities, particularly his capacity to guard multiple positions, are expected to be critical as the playoffs approach.

Fans and franchise members alike are eager to see how Green integrates with key players such as Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, and Evan Mobley. The synergy with these stars will be crucial to maximizing opportunities on the court and leveraging the defensive attention they draw.

The Cavaliers are poised to capitalize on the buyout market, with expectations high for their continued success. Green’s signing could be pivotal as they navigate roster changes, including Kevin Love‘s earlier departure, reinforcing their focus on maintaining playoff momentum.