David Nwaba turned down multi-year offer from the Pacers to sign with the Cavaliers

The signing of David Nwaba was one of the strangest situations for the Cleveland Cavaliers this summer. The team was able to come to an agreement with Nwaba early in free agency, however the signing wasn’t finalized until weeks later.

The Cavs were able to sign the 25 year-old guard when the Chicago Bulls rescinded his qualifying offer to help facilitate the signing of Jabari Parker.

While the Cavs didn’t get a long-term commitment from Nwaba, he turned down a longer offer from the Indiana Pacers to come to Cleveland. Citing fit, opportunity, and a desire to be part of the Cavs future.

Via Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com:

“Indiana wanted me for two years, but Cleveland seemed like a better fit,” Nwaba said. “Young guys as well as veterans on this team so I thought it was a perfect fit and knew I was going to get my opportunity here.”

“I thought I should prove myself before taking any offer long term,” Nwaba said. “I chose the one year and bet on myself.”

It seems like an inevitability for Nwaba to endear himself to the fans in Cleveland. He is a hard working player that almost is always a positive when on the court. The team is looking to find a new identity, and he can be the perfect tone setter in that pursuit.

While the wing rotation is congested, if Tyronn Lue wants to get back to his defensive roots Nwaba is going to find playing time. If he can prove himself as a valuable contributor in the rotation, then his gamble will pay off for both Nwaba and the Cavaliers.