Cleveland Cavaliers Fail To Land Artest, Ariza: What's Next?

Thursday left Cavaliers fans not so hopeful this offseason. Ron Artest announced Thursday evening he would leave the Rockets to sign with the Lakers. Trevor Ariza announced hours later he would leave the Lakers to sign with the Rockets. The Cavaliers' front office was in pursuit of both players. With Artest and Ariza agreeing to deals, the Cavaliers are still without a big swingman who can defend a taller offensive player. Artest and Ariza were the best available in that category until last night. So where do the Cavaliers look next in pursuit of another piece to their championship puzzle? Some fans might say to GM Danny Ferry, "Hey, just re-sign Wally Szczerbiak. He won't command as much money as his last contract gave him to stay in Cleveland." Re-signing Szczerbiak is not the solution to the problem, since he is largely the problem. A small forward to spell LeBron James is not a need; the Cavaliers need an upgrade over Szczerbiak. After the Cavaliers came up empty by not ... (link)