Report: Cavaliers want package for Irving similar to what Nuggets got for Melo

The Cleveland Cavaliers appear open to the idea of moving Kyrie Irving following reports he made a formal trade request, but won't do so without receiving compensation they deem befitting of such a star talent.

Cleveland's seeking a package similar to what the Denver Nuggets got in 2011 for sending Carmelo Anthony to the New York Knicks, league sources told ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski. This would include veterans who could help the team maintain its standing atop the Eastern Conference, draft picks, and young players for the future, Wojnarowski explains.

Anthony, along with Chauncey Billups, Shelden Williams, Anthony Carter, and Renaldo Balkman, were moved to The Big Apple over six years ago. In exchange, Denver acquired Wilson Chandler, Raymond Felton, Danilo Gallinari, Timofey Mozgov, and a 2014 first-round pick.

However, much of the league is using the recent Minnesota Timberwolves-Chicago Bulls trade involving Jimmy Butler as a model for an acceptable package, according to Wojnarowski. The Bulls only received an injured Zach LaVine, the unproven Kris Dunn, and rookie big man Lauri Markkanen, so Cleveland could have difficulty finding an offer that meets its standard for Irving.

Related - Report: Cavs unsuccessful in attempts to contact Irving

The 25-year-old point guard reportedly has his eyes set on the Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs, Minnesota Timberwolves, and New York Knicks as his preferred destinations. There isn't a no-trade clause in his contract, which has two years remaining with a player option in 2019-20, so Irving doesn't have much say in where he ends up - if Cleveland decides to move him at all.