Insatiable Cavaliers add veteran Marion to line-up
CLEVELAND : Adding championship experience in the wake of landing superstar LeBron James, the Cleveland Cavaliers announced Tuesday they have signed f o rwa r d S h awn Marion, who helped Dallas win the 2011 NBA crown.
The Cavaliers were revitalised when James, who led the Miami Heat to two NBA titles and two more runner- up showings over the past four seasons, returned to his home-region club in July.
That prompted the Cavaliers to swing a trade deal for star big man Kevin Love, giving James a “Big Three” along with guard Kyrie Irving in much the way he had a star trio in Miami with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh.
But the Cavaliers have also added a strong supporting cast, including sharpshooter Mike Mil ler, James Jones and now Marion.
“I can see the hunger and mentality of everyone in the organisation and l look forward to being a part of it,” Marion said.
“Thegoalistowinachampionship and that’s what I want.”
Cleveland general manager David Gri f f in says Marion “brings great versatility, talent and championship experience to the team.”
“He will impact both ends of the f loor and his ability to guard multiple positions will be particularly important for us,” Griffin said.
“Shawn is an accomplished, high- caliber veteran that will help with leadership on and off the court.”
Marion, 36, averaged 10.4 points and 6.5 rebounds over 76 games last season for Dallas and averaged 15.8 points and 9.0 rebounds in 1,106 games for Phoenix, Miami, Toronto and Dallas. — AFP