NBA Rumors: The 3 players from the Cleveland Cavaliers who should not return after the debacle against the Knicks

The Cleveland Cavaliers were completely overwhelmed by the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference Finals. The series ended with a resounding 4-0, capped by a 37-point loss in the fourth game.

The franchise maintains full confidence in their so-called "Core Four," consisting of Donovan Mitchell, James Harden, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen. However, the big question now is what moves the team needs to make the definitive leap towards the title.

Cleveland opted to replace Darius Garland with James Harden, but the experience did not yield the expected results in the playoffs, where the veteran guard continues to struggle to find success.

Despite the elimination, reports have emerged indicating that both Donovan Mitchell and James Harden will receive contract extensions this summer.

The franchise's intention is to continue building around both players, though this could involve significant changes in other areas of the roster.

Jarrett Allen, an important piece that could exit

The potential departure of Jarrett Allen would be a painful decision for Cleveland, especially due to the center's defensive impact as a rim protector.

However, Sam Quinn of CBS Sports believes that the current market particularly favors big men, and several teams would be willing to offer a lot for Allen, especially after his career-best playoff performance.

According to Quinn, the Cavaliers could use Allen as a centerpiece to acquire a standout wing player, as he sees the main issue with the team's perimeter rotation being the lack of reliable players on both ends of the court.

Max Strus has not met expectations

Max Strus is also among the potential cuts from the roster. While he could fit as the versatile wing Cleveland needs, injuries have significantly impacted his recent tenure with the team.

In the last two seasons, he has played just 62 regular-season games, with only 12 this past year.

Wynston Wilcox of Fansided states that Strus has not provided the expected impact off the bench. Additionally, the player is guaranteed over $16.6 million for the upcoming season, a figure that could prompt the franchise to seek a deal that offers something in return.

Dean Wade likely to depart in free agency

Dean Wade will be an unrestricted free agent this summer, and it seems that his continuity is not a priority for the organization.

The Cavaliers are facing the market with a projected payroll of $225 million, placing the team above the second salary apron and necessitating significant financial adjustments.

Wilcox believes Wade did not offer enough offensively to stay on the court and asserts that, at this stage, he simply occupies a roster spot without truly moving the team closer to a potential NBA Finals appearance.

Tumultuous summer ahead for Cleveland

The salary situation and playoff disappointment foreshadow a very eventful summer for Cleveland. The franchise needs to gain financial flexibility and, at the same time, figure out how to craft a roster capable of truly contending for the championship.