The Cleveland Cavaliers showed indications of rebirth in the 2020-21 season. The team began the season with a solid 10-11 record, and despite a defense that was far from great, one might argue that Cleveland’s roster finished ahead of plan on that front. The Cavs, on the other hand, struggled offensively, finishing 28th in efficiency and scoring only 1.05 points per possession. The future is the emphasis for the Cavs, given that they entered (and ended) 2020-21 with rebuilding on their minds.
After a breakout season in 2020-21, Collin Sexton is up for a contract extension, while Darius Garland improved dramatically in his second season as a starting point guard. On the wing, Isaac Okoro provides the type of defense and quickness that any team loves, while Larry Nance is a versatile veteran who can fill a variety of roles. The summer of 2021, though, might be a season of transition for Cleveland, with trade rumors swirling around Sexton, Jarrett Allen hitting free agency, and the Cavaliers perhaps drafting a franchise-caliber player at No. 3 overall.
A true No. 1 player, wing depth, and frontcourt clarity are all needed on the roster.
Grade: A for Evan Mobley (No. 3 overall).
Evan Mobley has the kind of talent that some of the most recent No. 1 overall picks have had. When viewed through that prism, landing him at No. 3 overall is a coup. The Cavs still have a lot of work to do with their roster, including a major decision with Jarrett Allen, but Mobley has the potential to be an excellent two-way player. To maximize his defensive potential, Mobley must prove he can play center on a consistent basis, but he provides a fascinating and diverse offensive skill set that should help Cleveland address some of the defensive flaws that have plagued the organization recently.
