What Impact Will Evan Mobley Have on the Cavs' 2021 Season?

What Impact Will Evan Mobley Have on the Cavs' 2021 Season?

By Michael Harrison

January 20, 2025 at 09:01 AM

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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