Cleveland Cavaliers: Andre Drummond is a necessary chaos

Pros of Andre Drummond

It’s really hard to argue against the numbers Andre Drummond is putting up. He’s averaging 16.0 points, 14.1 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.9 steals and 1.9 blocks per game. Say what you want about his inefficient post-ups, but there’s something of value in having a player who has a 50/50 chance of scoring on just about any possession.

With the Cavaliers’ current situation of having multiple key playmakers and shot creators out due to injury – Drummond’s importance increases. Would you rather have players like Cedi Osman and Damyean Dotson seeking their own shot? Or, is it better to dump the ball in the post and let Drummond force looks around the rim?

At the very least, his post-ups slow down the pace of the game. While some may think this is detrimental to a young team like Cleveland – it’s actually a benefit, as the Cavs have consistently been one of the worst defensive teams in transition for the last three years.

In fact, improving the defense is a thing Drummond has done best for Cleveland. Simply having a player of his size has done wonders for their efforts in the paint – going from 29th in opponent points in the paint to 8th this season.

Drummond is in the top three for total steals and blocks this season while hauling in the most defensive rebounds of any player. When engaged, his ability to protect the paint and disrupt opponents is his biggest contribution to Cleveland.

There is no doubt that Drummond makes the Cavaliers a better team. Even with all of his cons, Drummond has the ability to change the dynamic on both ends of the floor and help them win games they otherwise wouldn’t have been able to win. Unleashing Drummond and all of his chaos is a necessary evil for the Cavaliers.