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Cleveland Cavaliers: Keys to success for each young star

By Tony Pesta

MIAMI, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 22: Collin Sexton #2 of the Cleveland Cavaliers talks with Kevin Porter Jr. #4 against the Miami Heat during the first half at American Airlines Arena on February 22, 2020 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 22: Collin Sexton #2 of the Cleveland Cavaliers talks with Kevin Porter Jr. #4 against the Miami Heat during the first half at American Airlines Arena on February 22, 2020 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /
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Cleveland Cavaliers (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
Cleveland Cavaliers (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /

Kevin Porter Jr.

Consistency

One thing that Kevin Porter Jr. needs to address immediately is his consistency both on and off the court. The intangibles are something that can take Porter from a hidden gem to a bonafide star in this league.

The Cavaliers held Porter on a tight leash last season. Despite showing immense potential, Porter couldn’t always be trusted to play big minutes each night. Consequently, his responsibility on the team was limited as the coaching staff looked to ease Porter into situations.

The next step for Porter is proving he can hang in big games. This means limiting turnovers and remaining engaged at all times. There is no more room for rookie mistakes.

Defense

Porter’s physical build lends him to be a dominant perimeter defender when he feels like it. His speed and size make him a force. Yet, he didn’t show much tenacity on this end of the floor as a rookie.

Cleveland’s defensive rating improved slightly with Porter on the floor last season, indicating that he is capable of having an impact. However, he is leaving much to be desired as his ceiling as a two-way threat has yet to be realized. This is something that will take time but should be monitored heading into his sophomore campaign.

Shot Creation

Porter shined the most last season when he was in rhythm on offense. His herky-jerky handle and explosive first-step helped him create highlights routinely. In games where he was in his bag, Porter flashed the star potential that has everyone raving about him.

Next season, we will need to see Porter continue to make strides as a shot creator. He shot just 25.7 percent on pull-up 3-pointers last year, a number he must improve to reach his full potential. At his best, Porter can be the second coming of Paul George due to his similar build and skill set.

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