Kevin Porter Jr. is expected to be traded or released by the Cavaliers after a recent outburst related to a byproduct of the James Harden blockbuster, according to multiple reports.
A former first-round pick who had not yet played this season because of personal issues, Porter got into a screaming match and even threw food Friday night after his locker was moved to a wall with younger players, The Athletic reported on Monday. Porter’s old locker was reportedly given to Taurean Prince, who came over from the Nets as part of the four-team Harden trade.
Cavaliers general manager Koby Altman soon entered the locker room and confronted Porter, who “remained combative,” according to the report. The 20-year-old guard was then told to clean out his new locker and teammates were told he would no longer be part of the team, ESPN reported.
Porter, the No. 30 pick out of USC in 2019, averaged 10 points per game last year as a rookie but had yet to make his season debut this year. He was arrested in November and charged with improperly handling firearms in a vehicle after getting into a one-car accident. Police found a loaded gun and a small amount of marijuana in his car, according to reports, but all charges were later dismissed.
The Cavaliers are expected to trade or release Kevin Porter Jr. Getty ImagesIn the meantime, Porter had been away from the team but he was reportedly working his way back and joined his teammates on the bench for the first time this season during Friday’s game against the Knicks, per Cleveland.com.
“Just being back and being part of the team is good for all of us,” coach J.B. Bickerstaff had told reporters. “Obviously seeing what we’re doing, experiencing the games and those types of things will help him as he returns. We have a plan in place with KP. He’s always been a part of the team, but we wanted him with the guys.”



