CLEVELAND, Ohio — The return of Larry Nance Jr. to Cleveland isn’t just a feel-good homecoming story. It might be the financial solution the Cavaliers desperately need as they navigate the treacherous waters of the NBA’s new second apron restrictions.
The latest Wine and Gold Talk podcast explores how Nance’s unique situation could provide Cleveland remarkable financial flexibility in the coming years.
At 32 years old and already having earned over $71 million in his career, Nance has different priorities than many NBA players. His deep connections to Cleveland and desire to play for a contender create a scenario where the Cavaliers might secure a key rotation player for pennies on the dollar in future seasons.
“I can see a scenario where he just keeps signing minimum contracts to stay with the Cavs,” Chris Fedor explained on the podcast. “And all of a sudden one of your most important players, top eight players, top nine players you have on a minimum salary. Man, that would help things from a financial perspective if you feel like the fit works with him and Evan Mobley.”
This financial flexibility takes on enormous significance when considering Jarrett Allen’s contract, which escalates to over $30 million per year. The stark contrast in value creates a compelling case for the Cavaliers to consider.
Nance’s skill set as a connector, passer, and versatile defender complements Evan Mobley’s developing game. In the Cavaliers’ preseason opener, Nance immediately showcased his basketball IQ with four assists, running dribble handoffs and facilitating offense from the top of the key — skills that could prove vital as the team explores different frontcourt alignments.
What makes this season particularly interesting is that it serves as a test run for potential post-Allen lineups.
With Nance, Thomas Bryant, and even Nae’Qwan Tomlin in the mix, the Cavaliers can evaluate whether a combination of budget-friendly options can adequately replace Allen’s production.
“When Jarrett’s not on the floor, Evan’s playing with those other guys. Can they protect him from the physicality? Because that’s part of Jarrett’s role, is save Evan from the banging [bodies] that you have to do at the five spot,” Watkins noted on the podcast.
While Fedor believes Nance is better suited as a reliable backup than a starter at this stage of his career, his versatility and basketball IQ make him invaluable, especially at his price point. The veteran forward’s presence allows Cleveland to experiment with different alignments without committing to an immediate decision on Allen.
For the Cavaliers, who are already the only team in the second apron for the 2025-26 season, finding creative ways to maintain competitiveness while managing the salary cap will define their championship window. Having a hometown player willing to provide significant on-court value at minimum salary creates an unusual but potentially franchise-altering advantage.
Want to hear more about how Larry Nance Jr.’s return could impact the Cavaliers’ long-term roster construction? The complete conversation on the Wine and Gold Talk podcast delivers expert analysis on this developing situation and what it means for Cleveland’s championship aspirations.
Here’s the podcast for this week:
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