CLEVELAND — The Cavaliers traded injured centre Chris Andersen and cash to the Charlotte Hornets for a protected top-55 second-round draft pick.
Monday’s move opens a roster spot for Cleveland and gives the defending NBA champions another asset to use for future deals.
In a subsequent move, the Hornets immediately announced they waived Andersen.
Andersen, best known for his tattoos and hustle on the floor, suffered a season-ending injury to his right knee during practice on Dec. 16 and underwent surgery. The 38-year-old nicknamed Birdman has remained with the club during his rehab.
Cavs general manager David Griffin has been re-tooling his roster, dealing for shooting specialist Kyle Korver and signing forward Derrick Williams to a 10-day contract. It’s a safe bet that Griffin will make additional moves as the Cavs try to defend their title.
The NBA trading deadline is Feb. 23.
