Anderson Varejao says he's happy in Cleveland
With the Cleveland Cavaliers in rebuilding mode after the departure of two-time reigning MVP LeBron James over the summer, there have been a fair amount of trade rumours involving Anderson
Varejao, their energetic power forward.
With teams aware that the Cavaliers may be interested in making some changes, and with Varejao’s very reasonable contract, it is understandable that teams around the league have inquired
about the 28-year-old Brazilian. But the seventh-year player, who has spent his whole career in Cleveland, said on Tuesday 2 November that he’s not interested in leaving.
“I’m happy here,” said Varejao, who has four years worth $34.7 million left on his deal. “This is my seventh season (in Cleveland). I love this city. I’m good with everything. This is
just the beginning. We’ve played three games. Let’s see how things go.”
Varejao had a rough couple of months when he had to leave training camp early to fly to Brazil after the death of his grandfather. He tallied eight points and 10 rebounds in his team’s
season opening win against the Boston Celtics but was unable to travel with his team to Toronto, opting to stay with his father in Cleveland as he underwent heart surgery. The surgery went well but it has been an emotional start to the season for Varejao.
"It's a tough time," he said. "But it's life. I'm doing fine, I guess. It's not a good situation to be in, but everything is fine. He's doing good, and I'm happy – for him and for me."
The 30th pick in the second round of the 2004 NBA Draft, Varejao has earned a reputation as a hard worker, a good defender, and a solid rebounder. He had his best statistical season last
year when he averaged 8.6 points and 7.6 rebounds in 28.5 minutes per game. His career averages are 7.0 points and 6.7 rebounds.
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