NBA Trade Verdict

Cavaliers Win

Cleveland acquired 1985 second round pick (#45-Hot Rod Williams) and 1987 conditional pick (second round if Thompson joins Bucks roster this season, else third round) (#41-Kannard Johnson) for Paul Thompson, producing a clear Cavaliers win on realized player, draft and roster value.

February 12, 1985 Cleveland Cavaliers / Milwaukee Bucks Record confidence: High

Cleveland Cavaliers Received

  • Draft Pick 1985 second round pick (#45-Hot Rod Williams)
  • Draft Pick 1987 conditional pick (second round if Thompson joins Bucks roster this season, else third round) (#41-Kannard Johnson)

Trade Analysis

The Cavaliers acquired the pick used on Hot Rod Williams for Paul Thompson and a secondary conditional choice. Williams became a Sixth Man of the Year and a core contributor for a decade, producing an overwhelming return. The grade also considers age, contract timing, roster fit and whether the acquired value helped Cleveland’s competitive window rather than relying only on the names listed in the transaction.