Cleveland Cavaliers: 3 reasons to rally behind Collin Sexton

Why the Cleveland Cavaliers should rally behind Sexton: 1. He has grown as a playmaker

While Collin Sexton’s lack of size and defense will likely always be a concern — Sexton’s ability to impact the game without directly scoring will be the ultimate determining factor in his future success.

It is impossible to be conducive to winning in the modern NBA if you are not a strong playmaker. This was a weakness in Sexton’s game during his first two seasons. Tunnel vision when attacking the basket and an overall disinterest in setting up his teammates caused Sexton to obtain the reputation of a ball-hog that still plagues him despite growing in every facet as a creator.

Sexton began to take notable steps forward as a passer towards the end of his sophomore season. The game finally seemed to slow down for the 21-year-old and he finished the year on a 24-game stretch of 4.2 assists a night.

This carried over into his third stint in Cleveland, averaging a career-best 4.4 assists. His 2.8 turnover rate was still less than ideal but the improved decision-making was undeniable when watching Young Bull play.

Sexton is more assertive in finding open teammates and punishing help defenders. He made a ton of quality passes to Jarret Allen and other bigs in the dunker spot as he penetrated into the paint and generated looks for his teammates. Another ariel threat in Evan Mobley will improve this dynamic even more for Sexton.

In comparison to other offensively oriented guards like Devin Booker (4.3 assists) and Jamal Murray (4.8 assists), Sexton is right on track. Further growth from Darius Garland as the lead ball-handler will make Sexton’s above-average passing stand out even more — acting as a tertiary creator.

As stated, the Cavaliers have work to do as a team in terms of 3-point shooting. Adding more shooters will not only make it easier for Sexton to score but will also create more opportunities for him to kick out of his drive to open 3-point shooters.

With the Cavs boasting perhaps their most talented non-LeBron roster since the 1990s, Sexton will have plenty of weapons to target with his passes. Though I’d expect Sexton to continue embracing his role as a two-guard and allow Darius Garland to command the floor — we should see Sexton take another step forward as a playmaker.