CLEVELAND (AP) -The Cavaliers will match the three-year offer sheet made by Charlotte to restricted free agent Anderson Varejao, ending a protracted contract dispute that has kept the 6-foot-10 Brazilian sidelined this season.
The Bobcats, in need of a big man, reached the $17 million deal Tuesday. The deal gave the Cavaliers a week to match it or lose him.
The decision by Cleveland on Wednesday came the morning after the Cavaliers lost their fourth straight game. They are 0-3 without LeBron James, who sprained his left index finger a week ago.
Varejao, known for his energy and defense, averaged a career-best 6.8 points and 6.7 rebounds last season in helping the Cavaliers reach the NBA finals for the first time.
Varejao could opt out of the deal after the second season and become an unrestricted free agent. Varejao said last week he would prefer to play for another team.
Cavaliers match offer by Bobcats, Varejao to stay with Cleveland
By Admin
