The Cleveland Cavaliers are coming off a rather disappointing season. After having the second best regular season record in its history, going 64-18, they were bounced in the 2nd round of the playoffs to the Pacers, losing four games while only winning one. However, this offseason, the Cavs made a couple of moves which gives them a very familiar, but different look:
- Lonzo Ball acquired via trade (for Isaac Okoro) – If healthy, Ball provides elite perimeter defense, playmaking, and high basketball IQ. Cleveland needs depth at guard and Ball bolsters their strength at the point. He is likely to replace the injured Darius Garland for the beginning of the season.
- Grade: A-
- Sam Merrill signed a 4 year extension worth $38 million – Merrill is an elite shooter and a good perimeter defender. This signing caused a bit of controversy over the upcoming season as the Cavs decided to go with Merrill over a fan favorite Ty Jerome.
- Grade: B+
- Thomas Bryant signed to a one-year deal – Bryant brings depth to our big men. Bryant was one of the rotation players on the Pacers during their unexpected playoff run and he made key contributions especially against the Cavs.
- Grade: B
- Killian Hayes signed (details still undisclosed) – Hayes is a young guard who is known to be an inconsistent shooter. He was likely signed to add depth to the guard position as Darius Garland is out. If he can stay consistent, he will be a good role player for Cleveland.
- Grade: C
- Drafted and Signed at slot 49 is Tyrese Proctor out of Duke University – Proctor is a larger guard who is a great perimeter defender and shooter. He displayed his scoring ability in the summer league, thus proving worthy of signing. For the 49th pick, Proctor brings a ton of value.
- Grade: B+
The Cavs have 5 players ranked in the NBA’s preseason top 100:
- No.13 – Evan Mobley (2024 rank: 47)
- No.15 – Donovan Mitchell (2024 rank: 17)
- No.38 – Darius Garland (2024 rank: 57)
- No.45 – Jarrett Allen (2024 rank: 73)
The Cavs have a long season ahead of them. Max Strus and Darius Garland have been confirmed out for the first couple of months and yet many have high expectations of them. Cleveland may not have the same regular season success but if they remain consistent and Evan Mobley blossoms into his full potential as a star, the Cavs can make a deep playoff run this year.
Season Record Prediction: 55 wins 27 losses
