Photo by nba.si.com
Once considered one of the top centers in the NBA, Andrew Bynum has fallen so far that the Cleveland Cavaliers are set to release him. Worse, not because of injuries, but because of attitude problems.
Bynum was suspended without pay for Sunday’s game at Boston, costing him about $110,000. And although the suspension was lifted, he will remain exiled from the Cavaliers while being paid, the team said Sunday. The 26-year-old former all-star is excused from all team activities indefinitely.
In 24 games this season (19 starts), Bynum averaged 8.4 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.2 blocks in 20 minutes per game. Finally showing signs of becoming healthy again after knee troubles that sidelined him all of last season, the Cavs are disenchanted with his presence, calling him a “disruptive” force, disrespecting coaches.
He’s shot 41.9 percent from the field, well off his career pace of 55.7 percent, and he went 0-of-11 versus the Pistons on Dec. 23. In his last game against the Hawks, he finished with four points in 18 minutes.
Other teams are reported interested in signing Bynum should Cleveland release him. They include the two-time champion Miami Heat.
Cavaliers coach Mike Brown said: “It’s an internal matter. I know you guys can respect that. Not trying to be funny but you know what indefinite means.”
It means Bynum will never wear a Cavs uniform again.
