Cleveland Cavaliers trade rumors: Cavs eyeing Gay trade for Shumpert

Two names constantly in trade talks have finally crossed paths as Iman Shumpert and Rudy Gay are rumored to be switching places.

According to rumors, the two teams may be talking about a trade that would see them switch teams within the season. For the Cavaliers, they are possibly adding Gay as he provides more of a scoring threat than Shumpert while still playing incredible defense.

With the rest of the NBA strengthening their lineup, the Cavaliers are looking to maintain their distinction as champions by adding firepower through Gay.

As for the Kings, offloading Gay could be their way of starting a rebuild within the team, with Gay commanding a huge amount of money. Getting him off the books will help the team become more flexible.

In turn, they are still getting Shumpert who is known as a defensive stalwart despite some shortcomings as an offensive player.

Shumpert's role with the Cavaliers has shrunk as he is now limited to bench minutes with the team. During their run last year, it was J.R. Smith who enjoyed the playing time as he came up big for the Cavaliers during the Finals.

Shumpert is now back but he only averages 6.9 points, 2.6 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game. He is now limited to around 22 minutes per game which is the lowest in his career so far.

At 26 years old, Shumpert may still have time to develop his game. Starting over with the Kings may be exactly what he needs.

On the other hand, Gay is a veteran in the league after arriving as part of the 2006 draft class. He averages 18.4 points per game but has improved this season as he now averages 22.4 points and 5.4 rebounds in the first eight games for the Kings.

Gay is now 30 years old and would likely welcome a stint with the Cavaliers to help him reach the playoffs and possibly win a ring.