INDEPENDENCE, Ohio -- There was one time when free-agent center Larry Sanders was an upper echelon defender, capable of swatting shots, protecting the paint and keeping up with smaller guards in the pick-and-roll. He was a defensive linchpin, worthy of getting a $40 million contract, becoming part of the Milwaukee Bucks' nucleus.
That was a long time ago. Before he got suspended for using marijuana. Before he walked away from nearly $30 million remaining on his contract during the 2014-15 season, electing to deal with his internal demons -- anxiety and depression.
The Cleveland Cavaliers are trying to find out if the guy who finished third in Most Improved Player voting in 2013 and boasts 1.