The most surprising deal of the NBA trade deadline was, undoubtedly, Andre Drummond’s trade to Cleveland.
While speculation was high that the Pistons were looking to get rid of him, nobody was expecting the Cavaliers to trade for him. In fact, not even Drummond himself saw it coming.
In a statement he told Marla Ridenour of the Akron Beacon Journal, he thought it was a joke at first.
#Cavs' C Andre Drummond on reaction to trade: "I thought it was a joke at first. But obviously when it all settled in, I was truly excited to be somewhere where I’m wanted, really happy to start a new chapter here. I’m just looking forward to being with the guys."
— Marla Ridenour (@MRidenourABJ) February 8, 2020
Unfortunately, the Cavaliers aren’t in a much better position to compete than the Pistons are. As a struggling Eastern Conference defined by their dysfunctional front-office, Cleveland currently holds the worst record in the Eastern Conference.
As for Drummond, he has the rest of the season to prove he has a permanent home with his new team. Averaging 17.8 points, 15.8 rebounds and 2.8 assists, he is certainly one of the best the league has to offer in terms of traditional, rim-running centers.
So far, he seems to be embracing his new chapter well-enough.
