The Cleveland Cavaliers reshaped their roster again Friday as former two-way center Olivier Sarr signed a two-year deal with Real Madrid, following Cleveland’s trade of Dennis Schröder to the Charlotte Hornets. The Cavaliers, coming off a 93-130 loss to the New York Knicks (2026-05-26), are now 0-5 in their last five games, but the moves signal a strategic shift toward bigger targets.
What Happened to Olivier Sarr?
Sarr, the older brother of Washington Wizards center Alex Sarr, spent just four games with the Cavaliers after signing a two-way contract in March. The 6-foot-10 Frenchman averaged 3.5 points and 2.8 rebounds in limited minutes but found more success in the G League, posting 12 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game. Real Madrid’s two-year offer provides stability he lacked in the NBA.
Why It Matters for the Cavaliers
The Cavaliers are prioritizing roster flexibility, now sitting $30 million below the first apron after the Schröder trade. This positions them to pursue restricted free agents Jonathan Kuminga and Peyton Watson. President Koby Altman also remains in contact with James Harden’s representatives, per ESPN’s Shams Charania, as Cleveland seeks impact players to bolster their lineup.
What’s Next for Sarr and the Cavaliers?
Sarr’s NBA journey included stints with the Thunder and Raptors before joining Cleveland. A ruptured Achilles tendon in 2024 sidelined him for a full season, but his G League performance earned him another NBA shot. Now, he joins Real Madrid, a EuroLeague powerhouse, while the Cavaliers focus on upgrading their roster before the next season. Last result: Cleveland Cavaliers 93-130 New York Knicks (2026-05-26).
