As we all know, the NBA trade deadline can be the cause of some incredibly crazy rumors. It’s essentially the league’s unofficial “silly season.” The rumors aren’t always laughably insane, but sometimes a story pops up that just makes you scratch your head in confusion.

The latest report regarding the Cleveland Cavaliers is one such situation.

This afternoon, rumors began circulating regarding Cleveland’s interest in New Orleans Pelicans sharp-shooter Ryan Anderson. At first glance, I was a fan of this, as I think he’d be a solid fit for the Cavs’ new up-tempo offense.

It was only after the story started fleshing out that I vehemently changed my opinion.

Though it’s only a rumor, word is Anderson could be part of a three-team deal between Cleveland, New Orleans and the Boston Celtics. The latter team would receive, you guessed it, Kevin Love. It’s unclear what else the Cavs would be getting back, but Love’s name continued to be tied to the rumor.

It’s impossible for me to disagree with this move any more than I already do. If Cleveland is legitimately considering this trade, I’d beg the team to second guess it. The simple fact is this deal would be a major blunder for the Cavs.

Again, I like Anderson, and for the right price, I think Cleveland should try to acquire him for some bench depth. His PPG has increased year-over-year, and he could add legit firepower to the Cavs’ offense. Plus, since he’s on an expiring contract, you’d like to think the Pelicans are eager to move him.

However, involving him in a multi-team trade which puts Love on another roster seems suicidal for Cleveland.

Though no other player has been mentioned when it comes to who else the Cavs would get in this deal, a popular name is Celtics wingman Jae Crowder. He, like Anderson, would be a nice complimentary player for Cleveland.

But acquiring these two, along with maybe some draft picks, for Love? This sounds insane.

Heading into the trade deadline, common belief was the Cavs would only part with Love if they received a star player in return. Unless New Orleans is adding Anthony Davis to the mix, there is no star to be had for Cleveland in this deal.

Additionally, the Cavs’ main goal is to win a title as quickly as possible in order to take advantage LeBron James’ remaining prime years. With all due respect to Anderson or anyone else who’d be included in this potential trade, but pulling the trigger here would only decrease the odds of Cleveland winning a championship any time soon.

Yes, the Cavs are in need of some bench depth. Yes, Love has seen his numbers dip since joining the Cavs. However, this doesn’t mean he needs to be dealt just to acquire role players like Anderson.

If these reports have any validity to them, they certainly imply Cleveland’s front office is hitting the panic button, worried that the first sign of chemistry issues needs to be addressed by jettisoning the player in question.

Despite this, the last thing the Cavs need to do is give away four years of having Love in exchange for a half-season rental of Anderson just because the former player might be affecting overall team chemistry.

If Cleveland really is considering this, I’d recommend sleeping on it. If there is a third team, I’d recommend said franchise be willing to significantly sweeten the pot.

Otherwise, there’s no getting around the fact that this deal would only set the Cavs back.