Cleveland Cavaliers: 5 goals for Kevin Love in 2017-18
By Simon Smith
2. Improve defensive presence close to the rim
While Tristan Thompson is far from being an elite rim protector or shot-blocking presence, his combination of being a strong man-to-man and help defender was vital in helping to shore up a leaky Cavaliers’ defense last season. Overall, the team finished 22nd last season in defensive rating (points allowed per 100 possessions) at 108.0.
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It’s fair to say things aren’t going to get any easier this season on the defensive end. The new starting backcourt of Derrick Rose and Dwyane Wade is certainly not renowned for its defensive prowess. Rose last season finished with a defensive rating of 111.1, which ranked 200th among all guards last year. For his part, Wade turns 36 midseason, and has not been a positive defender for a number of seasons.
So not only will Love need to adjust to a new defensive role in the middle, there are likely to be numerous possessions per game where Love will need to scramble and cover for the new backcourt duo.
It’s going to interesting to track just how Love fares at this end of the floor. More often that not, teams are using a rim protector and defensive presence at the 5-spot, surrounded by a collection of perimeter shooters. Last season, Love recorded a block in just 18 of his 60 regular season games.
While Love’s lack of athleticism may prove to be an appetite for opposing guards driving and attacking the rim, his ability to battle down low and hit the defensive boards should ensure at least a serviceable return for the Cavaliers. In fact, the Cavaliers were 3.7 points per 100 possessions better off defensively when Love was on the floor last season.