Jamario Moon Will Join the Cleveland Cavaliers
Miami Heat Chooses Not to Match Contract Offer
Jul 23, 2009
Miami Heat President, Pat Riley, made it official this evening that the organization would not retain Jamario Moon. Riley had until midnight, July 25th to make a decision regarding Moon's fate. There was talk early last week that Miami would likely not match Cleveland's offer, but in the NBA nothing can be taken for granted.
Why Miami Heat Chose Not to Match Contract Offer for Jamario Moon
Pat Riley spoke earlier to the media and had this to say about his decision. “We declined to match because we want to stay true to our plan of not adding salary to our 2010 cap and matching it would have reduced our flexibility. We would like to thank Jamario for his contributions to our organization and helping us get back to the playoffs last season. We wish him the best in the future.” Riley also added that he would like to offer additional minutes to rookie forward Michael Beasley so he can continue his development. Having Moon on the roster would have complicated that task.
What Cleveland Cavaliers Gain By Signing Jamario Moon
Jamario is exactly what the doctor ordered for Cleveland's lack of depth and athleticism coming off of the bench. Moon will be a solid backup option for LeBron James, and would likely allow LeBron more time to rest on the bench because he is a more reliable player than past backups for LeBron.
The Orlando Magic exposed the Cavaliers' backcourt weaknesses last season during the Eastern Conference Finals. Other than Delonte West, Cleveland backcourt personnel struggled greatly defensively. Danny Ferry, General Manager of the Cavs, has already drastically improved his roster by adding veterans Shaquille O'Neal and Anthony Parker. The signing of Moon will be considered the icing on the cake. Moon will fit in perfectly with the defensive identity Cleveland has established for itself. Jamario's youth and past experience will be welcomed in Cleveland too.
Another point of value is that during Jamario's brief stint in Miami, after he was traded by Toronto, Jamario showed he could play well and thrive next to a superstar. Moon was able to showcase talents his fans had never seen before, such as high flying dunks and improved shooting from outside when left open. Imagine the opportunities that will present to Jamario when playing next to two megastars in LeBron James and Shaquille O'Neal.
Danny Ferry had this to add about Moon after he learned that Miami would not be matching the offer. "Jamario is going to bring versatility and a high level of athleticism to our team. He should be a very good fit to our current roster. We are very happy to have him with us."
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