The A-Team’s “Hannibal” Smith loved it when a plan came together. So imagine how Cavaliers G.M. David Griffin must be feeling these days.
The first year general manager looks like he just landed another free agent piece to what he hopes is a championship puzzle, as various media outlets are reporting that free agent small forward Shawn Marion will join the Cavs for the $1.4 million veteran minimum.
The lure of playing with LeBron James and potentially for a championship this coming season were reportedly the deciding factors, as Marion selected the Cavaliers over the Pacers even though Indiana could pay “The Matrix” more money.
It also couldn’t hurt that the 15 year NBA veteran and Griffin have a prior relationship, having spent nine years together while Marion played for the Suns and “Griff” worked in the front office in Phoenix.
The 36 year old Marion averaged 10.4 points per game and 6.5 rebounds per game last season while playing in Dallas. Even at his age, he is still considered an above average defender which is something the Cavaliers desperately need.
The former first round pick in 1999 by Phoenix, will be looking for his second NBA Title as he was part of the 2010-11 Mavericks team that beat “King” James and the Heat in LeBron’s first year in Miami.
The Cavaliers have yet to officially confirm the signing.