NBA: 10 relative unknowns approaching defining seasons in 2018-19

8. Larry Nance Jr., Cleveland Cavaliers

So far in his young NBA career, Larry Nance Jr. hasn’t gotten the opportunity to prove he can be more than a savvy, defensive-minded role player off the bench who occasionally thrills the home crowd with a high-flying dunk. Entering his first full season with the Cleveland Cavaliers, he’ll get the chance to prove he deserves to be part of the post-LeBron James core.

King James is gone, and though Kevin Love may start at the 4 in the wake of his departure, there’s a chance Tyronn Lue keeps the Cavs’ last remaining star at the 5. In that scenario where Love starts over Tristan Thompson at center, there’s an opening at the 4 that’s begging to be filled.

After averaging 8.9 points and 7.0 rebounds in just 20.8 minutes per game during his 24 appearances in Cleveland, Nance is poised cash in on a bump in playing time. The question is, will this impending restricted free agent prove his offense can match his defensive utility? Or will he be outed as a high-end reserve without starter potential?