The NBA Trade Rumors today consist of an unearthed attempt by the Cleveland Cavaliers to acquire a strong defensive ring protector to hide Kevin Love's defensive deficiencies. Timofey Mozgov was coached by Cavs head coach David Blatt on the Russian National Team. He seems like a perfect fit.

And the Cavaliers knew that, so they actually pursued him. The details of that rumor was summarized in SB Nation blog Denver Stiffs citing a podcast by Zach Lowe of Grantland:

"Things got really interesting when Lowe started pondering Cleveland's need for a true rim protector. He discussed the slight decline of (and oft injured) Anderson Varejao, the trading away of Tyler Zeller, and how the Cavs could use some help in the paint to anchor their defense ... enter Denver. Now, this is just Lowe shooting the breeze on his podcast, but he mentioned the possibility of the Nuggets getting in the mix if a deal for Kevin Love and the Cavs comes to fruition.

Lowe mentioned Timofey Mozgov, JaVale McGee, and J.J. Hickson being possibilities the Cavs might consider in some type deal involving the Timberwolves or perhaps separate. Denver could consider moving one of their big men to clear playing time and salary from their roster, while getting some type of asset(s) in return."

It turns out that it was Mozgov they were after. But it's not past tense, though. The Cavs are reportedly pursuing the trade again, or 'still pursuing' because it's unclear if they ever stopped.

Again, from Denver Stiffs:

"According to a radio interview with Brian Windhorst of ESPN, the Cleveland Cavaliers are still attempting to trade for the Nuggets (current) starting center Timofey Mozgov. (starts about the 18:00 mark) David Blatt coached Mozgov on the Russian National team."

A solid rim protector is the only flaw in the Cavs roster. They have covered most of their offensive needs with LeBron James and Kevin Love and they have an army of shooters. Can the Cavs still pull it off even if they're almost out of assets?