Cleveland Cavaliers: 3 Players set for breakout seasons in 2019-20
By Tony Pesta
2. Cedi Osman
Perhaps the most beloved member of the current Cleveland Cavaliers, Cedi Osman has done enough to win the hearts of many fans.
When he first came to Cleveland, Osman was a largely unknown prospect from Turkey. Drafted with the 31st pick in the 2015 NBA Draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves, Osman was quickly traded to the Cavaliers where he played a few seasons with the Canton Charge before finally getting his first official roster spot in the NBA.
Much like Nance, Osman had his development stunted by the presence of LeBron James. However, this may have done him well, as it is painfully obvious that Osman soaked up a ton of knowledge from James and Kyle Korver. If you don’t believe me, watch how Osman moves in transition or sets up his 3-point shot.
This help from his veterans certainly aided Osman in his first season as a real rotational player. Though he had issues with his confidence, Osman slowly learned how to calmly attack the defense and find the looks he wanted.
His 2018-19 campaign was wildly inconsistent, but his averages of 13.0 points and 4.7 rebounds per game on 42.7 percent shooting was enough to earn him a spot on the NBA Rising Stars team.
Best scoring games from Osman:
- CLE vs. MIA: 29 points, 11-20 FG (3-8 3P)
- CLE vs. POR: 27 points, 10-16 FG (3-5 3P)
- CLE vs. WAS: 26 points, 10-16 FG (4-8 3P)
- CLE @ BOS: 25 points, 8-11 FG (6-7 3P)
The only thing truly holding back Osman was his inconsistency as a scorer. He has great size and speed for his position. Pairing his athleticism with his shooting should be a focus for him this season as he looks to increase his production on the offensive end.
If Osman becomes the consistent scorer that he is capable of, he will have a truly great season. At his full potential, Osman can be a borderline All-Star one day.