Cleveland Cavaliers: 3 players who could be available for new pick
By Ryan Piers
1. Bol Bol
Bol would be the get of all gets if he falls into the 20s to Cleveland Hoops fans know he’s the son of former NBA giant (literally speaking) Manute Bol. Bol Bol is the 2.0 version of his father, one with the snazzy updates to fit the modern game. He’s 7’2” and completely comfortable shooting 3-pointers. He was hitting 52.0 percent of his deep balls while averaging 21.0 points and 9.6 rebounds per game with the Oregon Duck before suffering a season-ending injury, a stress fracture to his foot.
Bol was thought of as a clear top-five pick, possibly worthy of the second selection before the injury. Some likened him to Kevin Durant with his length and shooting ability complete with rim protection.
His potential to be an elite shot blocker, like his pops, is obvious. Just the way he cocks his arm back and obliterates shots is so aesthetically pleasing. It’s like Ken Griffey Jr.’s swing, but with blocks.
Bol played only nine college games, most against pushover, small programs. And foot injuries are serious, especially for big men. For that reason, especially, he’ll likely fall out of the lottery. Maybe, just maybe, he might even fall out of the top 20.
Cleveland will be waiting with open arms if so. Imagine paring him with an R.J. Barrett or a Rui Hachimura. That would be the haul of all hauls in the first round.
Right now Bol is projected to go in the late teens. Cleveland might need to utilize trade assets to get him. Because of Koby Altman’s aggressiveness at the trade deadline, they have enough ammo to move up to within striking range of Bol.
There is also the possibility a couple prospects erupt in the NCAA tournament, catapulting their stock upwards. Bol won’t have that chance. With other prospects’ stars rising, maybe he dips just a few selections into the early 20s.