Beware of Underestimating the Cavaliers’ Gradual, Undermanned Start
The Cleveland Cavaliers officially kicked off their season in style when Jarrett Allen executed a perfect lob to Evan Mobley late in the fourth quarter against the Golden State Warriors last Sunday. This play, showcasing the dynamic big-to-big connection, not only emphasized the Cavaliers’ dominance in a comfortable 115-104 win but also served as a reminder of their ability to compel even the formidable Warriors to adjust their strategy.
While the Cavaliers entered the game with a 2-4 record (now 3-5), it’s crucial to contextualize their performance given their initial challenges and short-handed roster. The absence of key players has hindered the team from being a must-watch on League Pass. However, a closer examination of their losses reveals a narrative reminiscent of early episodes of “The Simpsons” – a precursor to potential growth and success.
An essential addition to the Cavaliers’ arsenal is Max Strus, who arrived in Cleveland through a sign-and-trade, signing a lucrative four-year, $62.3 million contract. Despite not receiving the grand welcome that some other players might have, Strus, known for his sharpshooting prowess, brings precisely what the team needs to enhance its offensive capabilities.
The Cavaliers, following a 51-win regular season, faced deficiencies in shooting and a need to diversify their offensive approach during the playoffs. Strus, with his ability to shoot from various positions on the court, was strategically acquired to open up the team’s offensive options. Evan Mobley, a pivotal player for the Cavaliers, recognized Strus’s impact not only in spacing and shooting but also in the intricate two-man game that they developed during the preseason.
The collaboration between Strus and Mobley goes beyond on-court chemistry. Before the training camp even commenced, they engaged in a film session, studying how Strus and Bam Adebayo, his former Heat teammate, navigated defenses and executed plays during their time together. This meticulous preparation reflects the commitment of the Cavaliers to integrate new elements into their game and maximize the strengths of their revamped roster.
While defense remains a cornerstone for the Cavaliers, as anchored by Mobley and Allen, the focus this season is on achieving balance. The addition of Strus, along with Georges Niang, aims to alleviate the offensive burden on stars like Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland. Strus’s threat as a shooter opens up driving lanes for the talented guards, providing a pick-your-poison dilemma for opponents.
Heading into their rematch with the Warriors, the Cavaliers’ offensive ranking sits at 25th. However, injuries to key players and a surprisingly low 3-point shooting percentage contribute to a misleading assessment of the new pieces’ impact. Analyzing shot distribution reveals a positive shift, with the team ranking third in rim frequency and 29th in midrange frequency, indicating a more versatile offensive approach.
Mitchell’s career-high points per game and impressive true shooting percentage are attributed to the threat posed by Strus, who doesn’t need to replicate his opening night performance consistently to make a meaningful impact. The Cavaliers’ offense, emphasizing faster play and increased ball movement, aims to maintain dual personalities – explosiveness in transition and resilience in half-court sets.
Early indicators show promise, with the Cavaliers boasting the second-best transition offense in the league and ranking seventh in transition frequency. While challenges persist, such as stagnant possessions and concerns about roster construction, the team’s vision for a dynamic and multifaceted offense is gradually materializing.
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