Analyzing success of Cleveland Cavaliers starting 5

F: Cedi Osman

Cedi Osman has acted as the glue guy for this Cleveland Cavaliers team.

Though his individual stats aren’t eye-popping, there is a clear difference between the Cavaliers’ production with Osman on and off the floor.

Osman delivers a team-high net rating of plus-7.8 when he is on the floor. In contrast, the team’s net rating dips to minus-17.1 with Osman on the bench. Only Tristan Thompson holds a larger impact when taken out of the game.

This is because of Osman’s versatility. He is the only player in the starting five with the capabilities of defending multiple positions and scoring in a number of different ways. Osman can be utilized as a shooter, slasher and playmaker.

The 2018 Rising Star got off to a scorching start from deep this season, hitting 11 of his first 21 attempts. Overall, Osman is shooting 40.4 percent from the 3-point line.

Osman is averaging fewer points than last season, but this is only because his usage has decreased as well. He is used far more sparingly and is often neglected by his teammates when he is wide open.

Considering how consistent Osman has been as a scorer this season, the team must find a way to get him more involved offensively. Osman is currently attempting just 8.0 shots per game, making him the only starter in single digits.

It’s evident that the Cavaliers are better with Osman on the floor. It is up to John Beilein and the rest of the squad to get him more touches.