What Impact Will Evan Mobley Have on the Cavs' 2021 Season?
The Cleveland Cavaliers selected Evan Mobley with the third overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft. Here's what to expect from the USC product in his rookie season:
Expected Role and Position
- Will primarily play power forward alongside Jarrett Allen
- Similar to how Memphis uses Jaren Jackson Jr. and Dallas deploys Kristaps Porzingis
- Will also get backup center minutes behind Allen
- Helps reduce Kevin Love's minutes while providing opportunities for Larry Nance Jr.
Shooting Development
- Shot 30% from three (12-40) in college at USC
- Shows potential as a stretch big man despite limited attempts
- Expected to significantly increase three-point volume in NBA
- Projects as pick-and-pop threat to complement Garland and Sexton
- Will focus on developing into reliable perimeter shooter
Rookie of the Year Prospects
- Strong contender alongside Cade Cunningham, Jalen Green, and Jalen Suggs
- Expected to post impressive numbers in:
- Rebounding
- Rim protection
- Scoring versatility
- Better ROY odds than previous Cavs rookie Isaac Okoro
- Consider as value bet for ROY but with measured expectations
Impact Potential
- Two-way player who can contribute immediately
- Strong defensive presence and rim protector
- Developing offensive game with inside-out capability
- Key piece in Cavaliers' young core alongside Allen and backcourt
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