NBA News 2016: Cavs Trade Joe Harris For Second Round Pick; Joakim Noah Returns But Is Reinjured
The Cleveland Cavaliers has traded guard Joe Harris to the Orlando Magic.
According to a report by the Associated Press' Tom Withers for NBA.com, the Cavaliers will receive a second-round draft pick in 2017 and a protected second-round draft pick in 2020 in exchange for Harris' services. The deal also included cash going to Orlando.
According to Cavaliers' head coach David Blatt, Harris was described as a "real good member of the team" and was a player whom he enjoyed coaching. He adds that while he did not like the idea of letting him go from the team, it was something that would benefit his former player more.
"It's one of those things that you wish it didn't have to happen, but it's understandable under the circumstances why," Blatt said.
The report adds that the said move saves the Cavaliers a ton of money, approximately $3 million in payroll and luxury charges, and opens up a roster spot as well. For the current NBA regular season, the 24-year-old Harris put up very small numbers, averaging 0.6 points, 0.6 rebounds through 3 minutes of playing time.
Meanwhile, Chicago Bulls mainstay big man Joakim Noah returned to action after missing several games due to injury.
In a report by Nick Friedell for ESPN, the 30-year-old professional basketball player returned to work after suffering a slight left tear in his left shoulder which he sustained during the Bulls December 21st game against the Brooklyn Nets.
Before Noah's return, head coach Fred Hoiberg had said that the return would not be abrupt as they will try to make it an easy transition, as much as possible. "We'll ease him back in. No actual minute restrictions, per se, but we'll be a little bit careful with him out there," Hoiberg said.
Noah was able to play in Chicago's games against Washington (Jan. 11), Milwaukee (Jan. 12) and Philadelphia (Jan. 14). However, in yesterday's game against Dallas, he suffered a left shoulder dislocation and had to leave the game in the second quarter. Another ESPN report says that he is scheduled for an MRI today.
