The Cleveland Cavaliers are closing in on trading for Rajon Rondo from the Los Angeles Lakers. Rondo would be a replacement for Ricky Rubio, who is out for the rest of the season following a torn ACL in his left knee.

Rondo will be a low-cost backup for Darius Garland. Cleveland will likely send a minimal return to LA to complete the trade. The Cavs will need to waive a player to make room for Rondo.

The trade will open up a roster for the Lakers, while also clearing some of their luxury tax burden. Because Los Angeles is so far over the tax line, eating a salary to open a roster spot would have cost them considerable money in tax penalties. Now, the Lakers can sign a veteran to a rest of season contract at a far lower tax hit.