After finalizing a buyout with the Utah Jazz, center Kendrick Perkins is making his way to the Cleveland Cavaliers and has committed to play for the surging team. The trade was reported by a source knowledgeable on the matter to ESPN.com.

Perkins' move to the Cavaliers began with his trade to the Jazz last Thursday.

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Initially, Perkins was traded to the Jazz in a three-team deal that also saw guard Reggie Jackson move to the Detroit Pistons, while Enes Kanter, Steve Novak, Kyle Singer, and D.J. Augustin found a new home with the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Perkins never suited up for the Jazz.

While he had opportunities to join other teams like the Chicago Bulls, the Los Angeles Clippers, the New Orleans Pelicans, and the San Antonio Spurs, he ultimately chose the cavaliers as a result of Cavaliers' superstar Lebron James.

A source reports that Perkins was personally chosen by James, who convinced Perkins to join their squad. The possibility of a championship run and the promise of playing time for the Cavaliers was what ultimately sealed the deal for Perkins.

By Saturday, James was already welcoming Perkins to Cleveland via messages released in Twitter. In it, he welcomed Perkins, calling him his brother as well as him muscle for the team.

As soon as Perkins made up his mind, he called Clippers coach Doc Rivers, whom Perkins played for in Boston, to let him know of the decision.

Perkins is best known for his presence in the paint and the interior and physical defense he offers. Joining the Cavaliers, he will make a fine addition to the team, providing support behind Timofey Mazgov.

At 30 years old, Perkins has had a lot of experience in the National Basketball Association (NBA).

A 12-year veteran, he has spent his initial years with the Boston Celtics, eventually winning a championship in 2008. 

Tagscleveland cavaliers, Kendrick Perkins, Lebron James