The Cleveland Cavaliers have taken significant strides in their quest to build a formidable and competitive team, evidenced by their recent flurry of contract agreements. Most notable among these is the three-year, $38 million deal with rising star Isaac Okoro, who was the last remaining restricted free agent on the market.
Okoro, the No. 5 overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, has spent his entire professional career with the Cavaliers, developing into a crucial component of their lineup. Last season, the 22-year-old small forward averaged 9.4 points, three rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. He also showcased a significant improvement in his shooting, achieving a career-high 39.1% from beyond the arc on 3.1 attempts per game during the 2023-24 season. Okoro’s ability to knock down threes adds a valuable dimension to his game, making him a versatile threat on the court.
Okoro started 42 games last season, demonstrating his increasing role within the team’s rotation. His performance has not only solidified his position as a starter but also justified the team's investment in him for the foreseeable future. With Okoro locked in, the Cavaliers now turn their attention to integrating their array of young talent into a cohesive unit capable of deep playoff runs.
A Busy Offseason for the Cavaliers
The extension for Okoro is part of a broader offseason strategy by the Cavaliers to secure their core players. Earlier, the Cavaliers agreed to a three-year, $150 million extension with star guard Donovan Mitchell. This deal, along with other substantial commitments, underscores the franchise’s determination to build a sustainable, competitive team.
Adding to the extensive list of contract agreements, the Cavaliers also signed Evan Mobley to a five-year, $224 million extension. Mobley, another young and promising talent, has already made a significant impact on the court and is seen as a cornerstone of the team’s future.
Furthermore, Jarrett Allen, whose defensive prowess has been a critical asset for the Cavaliers, secured a three-year, $91 million extension. Allen’s presence in the paint and his ability to protect the rim are invaluable to the team's defensive schemes.
A Season of Milestones
The Cavaliers made considerable progress last season, making their first postseason appearance since LeBron James’ second departure from the team. They managed to win a playoff series without James for the first time since 1993, a noteworthy achievement that signals the potential of their current roster. However, their playoff journey was cut short as they were eliminated in the second round by the Boston Celtics.
The postseason exit prompted significant changes within the organization. The Cavaliers decided to part ways with head coach JB Bickerstaff, who played a role in guiding the team back to the playoffs. In June, the team announced the hiring of Kenny Atkinson as the new head coach. Atkinson is widely recognized for his developmental skills and strategic approach, which the Cavaliers hope will elevate them to new heights.
Looking Ahead
With these substantial investments in key players and the strategic acquisition of a new head coach, the Cavaliers are setting the stage for a promising future. The team’s leadership believes that the blend of seasoned players and emerging talent can provide the foundation for sustained success.
Isaac Okoro’s development, in particular, will be crucial. As he continues to refine his skills and expand his role within the team, his contributions could be pivotal in the Cavaliers’ quest for another deep playoff run. The organization’s commitment to nurturing young talent while retaining experienced players highlights their balanced approach to team building.
With the season on the horizon, fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching how these strategic moves translate on the court. The Cavaliers have positioned themselves as a team to watch, and their journey promises to be an intriguing narrative in the landscape of the NBA.