Collin Sexton, Cleveland Cavaliers. Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images
Every single player on an NBA roster like the Cavs is a valued part of the team, a key piece of the franchise’s plan, a guy whose jersey every fan should have hanging up in their closet ready for game day, someone who will retire with the team.
Until they aren’t.
Players are constantly changing, and their current production and long-term outlook aren’t static. A player who was a franchise building block at one point can become the odd-man-out. An up-and-comer is a great option on a rookie contract but less palatable on a pay raise.