According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Cleveland Cavaliers have ensured that restricted free agent Isaac Okoro will be returning by giving him a three-year, $38 million contract. Okoro rejected the original $11.83 million one-year qualifying offer before accepting the revised agreement. The Cavaliers signed the deal without worrying about exceeding the luxury tax, despite being $10.4 million below it.
Defensive Asset with Growing Versatility
Selected as the fifth overall pick in 2020, Okoro is praised for his defensive abilities and versatility. Although his improvement on offense has been slow, he maintained an average of 8.5 points and 2.9 rebounds in 27.6 minutes per game throughout his career. In the previous season, he displayed progress by hitting a personal best of 39.1% from three-point range, indicating potential offensive development. Due to Evan Mobley’s injuries, Okoro took on a larger role as a power forward in the 2023-24 season, filling in for 16% of his playing time, a much higher percentage than in previous seasons.
Cleveland’s Ambitious Offseason
Okoro’s deal is a component of a hectic offseason for the Cavaliers. Which involved hiring former Warriors assistant Kenny Atkinson as head coach. Next, they signed a three-year contract worth $150.3 million with All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell. Before giving Evan Mobley a five-year extension worth $224 million.
Aiming Higher in 2024
With Okoro returning, the Cavaliers hope to capitalize on their recent achievements. Particularly following their exit to the Boston Celtics after five games in the playoffs. As Isaac Okoro keeps developing his skills, particularly on the offensive end. He continues to be a crucial element for Cleveland’s defense-focused foundation. The Cavaliers aim for a deeper postseason run is enhanced by his presence, bringing depth and resilience.
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