The Cleveland Cavaliers are making significant moves to solidify their roster, starting with a three-year, $38 million deal for Isaac Okoro, one of the team's young and promising players. Okoro, previously the last remaining restricted free agent on the market, was the No. 5 overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft and has spent his entire career with the Cavaliers.
Okoro has shown consistent improvement over his tenure with the team. Last season, he averaged 9.4 points, three rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. His shooting has also noticeably improved, as evidenced by his career-high 39.1% from beyond the arc on 3.1 three-point attempts per game during the 2023-24 season. These numbers demonstrate Okoro’s potential to grow into a pivotal role for the Cavaliers.
Building Around Young Talent
The Cavaliers are evidently committed to building a competitive squad around their young core. This offseason has been busy for the front office, which also managed to secure significant contract extensions for key players. Donovan Mitchell inked a three-year, $150 million extension, Evan Mobley agreed to a five-year, $224 million deal, and Jarrett Allen secured a three-year, $91 million extension. These moves signal the organization's determination to create a stable and talented roster capable of competing at the highest level.
A New Chapter Under Kenny Atkinson
While the Cavaliers were eliminated in the second round of the playoffs by the Boston Celtics, the run was notable for several reasons. It marked the team's first postseason appearance since LeBron James' second departure. Additionally, they won a playoff series without James for the first time since 1993, a significant milestone in the franchise's history. Despite these achievements, the playoff exit led to the firing of head coach JB Bickerstaff.
The team didn't waste time finding a replacement, hiring Kenny Atkinson in June. Atkinson is known for his developmental acumen and strategic approach, attributes that should greatly benefit a squad rich in young talent. His reputation for player development could be precisely what the likes of Isaac Okoro, Evan Mobley, and other young Cavaliers need to elevate their game further.
This blend of seasoned players and young prospects provides a balanced foundation for the Cavaliers as they aim to climb higher in the competitive hierarchy of the NBA. With the additions and new leadership in place, Cleveland fans have every reason to be optimistic about the team's direction.
As the Cavaliers prepare for the new season, all eyes will be on how these pieces fit together under Atkinson's guidance. The front office's efforts are clearly focused on sustaining long-term success, and the forthcoming games will be the first test of this renewed strategy.