New Home: Luol Deng said he was shocked by trade but excited about new start with Cavaliers

New Cleveland Cavaliers forward Luol Deng laughs as he meets reporters after practice at the NBA team's facility in Independence, Ohio Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2014. Deng was traded to the Cavaliers from the Chicago Bulls for Andrew Bynum and future draft considerations. (AP Photo/Mark Duncan) (The Associated Press)

New Cleveland Cavaliers forward Luol Deng talks with reporters after his first practice with the NBA team at their practice facility in Independence, Ohio Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2014. The Cavaliers traded Andrew Bynum and future draft choices for the two-time All-Star Tuesday. (AP Photo/Mark Duncan) (The Associated Press)

INDEPENDENCE, Ohio – Luol Deng said the toughest thing about being traded was explaining to his mom that it wasn't a bad thing.

Deng was acquired by the Cavaliers on Tuesday in a trade from Chicago, which drafted him and where he played for nine seasons. Deng said his mom, Martha, was visiting from London when he was dealt to Cleveland for Andrew Bynum and future draft picks. Deng said his mom didn't understand how her son could be traded and she asked him if he was playing poorly.

Deng said he was "shocked" by the trade but he's excited about joining the Cavaliers. He's open to talking to them about a long-term contract.

Deng was also able to convince Cavs guard Matthew Dellavedova to give him jersey No. 9, the number he wore in Chicago. Deng has always worn No. 9 because he is one of nine children.