(Reuters) - The Cleveland Cavaliers signed free agent Deron Williams on Monday then debuted their new guard in a 102-95 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks.
Williams, a three-time All Star, was waived by the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday and cleared waivers on Saturday, making him a free agent.
The Cavaliers signed Williams to the veteran minimum salary for the rest of this season, giving the Cavaliers a veteran backup point guard.
He appeared in the team’s victory over the Bucks on Monday, scoring 14 points and grabbing seven rebounds.
The 32-year-old played 40 games, all as a starter, for the Mavericks this season. He averaged 13.1 points, 6.9 assists and 2.6 rebounds in 29.3 minutes.
LeBron James had stated that the Eastern Conference-leading Cavaliers (41-17) needed to add another playmaker in order to defend their title and he appears to have got his wish.
“He can knock down shots and he can play make,” James told reporters of his new team mate.
“He’s played in big games before so you know he won’t shy away from the moment. It’s going to help us out a lot.”