CLEVELAND – The Cleveland Cavaliers are taking a chance on Andrew Bynum and his creaky knees.

The free agent centre, who never played one second with Philadelphia last season because of knee injuries, has agreed to terms on a two-year contract with the Cavs, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press.

Bynum accepted the deal on Wednesday night, said the person who spoke on condition of anonymity because the team has not announced the agreement.

The 7-footer was traded to the 76ers last summer as part of a four-team blockbuster. Bynum, a former All-Star with the Lakers, was expected to help Philadelphia contend, but the 25-year-old never stepped on the court and underwent surgery on both knees in March.

The Cavs, who beat out Atlanta and Dallas for Bynum, are only guaranteeing $6 million and one year to Bynum, the person said. The team has an option on the second year.

In Cleveland, Bynum will be reunited with Cavs coach Mike Brown. The two spent one season together in Los Angeles and Bynum had his best season as a pro, averaging 18.7 points and 11.8 rebounds in 60 games.

Bynum, if healthy, should move the Cavs from one of the Eastern Conference’s worst teams to a playoff contender. Cleveland won just 24 games last season and has won 66 in the three years since LeBron James left.

Bynum has plenty of playoff experience and he would give the Cavs another proven star to go along with All-Star point guard Kyrie Irving.

In guaranteeing Bynum only one year, the Cavs have an out if he doesn’t perform up to expectations. But if he does play well, the Cavs will have a roster that could attract another high-profile free agent next summer, when James could be available.