Cleveland Cavaliers: 3 keys to reaching NBA Playoffs

Cleveland Cavaliers finally have 3-point shooters… kinda

Shifting back to the offense, the addition of Mobley, Rubio, Markkanen and Valentine will grant the Cavaliers more versatility on offense than they have had in years. This additional scoring is going to bode well for a team that ranked dead last in points per game last season.

As stated, Rubio’s ability to lead the second unit will allow for better staggering between Sexton and Garland. This ensures the Cavaliers are never without a primary ball-handler or scorer and will simplify Sexton’s role as a pure scorer when sharing the court next to Rubio or Garland.

Then, the Cavaliers can rely on Markkanen to play a role similar to that of Love. A seven-footer who shot above 40 percent on nearly six 3-point attempts per game last season, Markkanen is going to work wonders for one of the worst shooting teams in the NBA.

The same goes for Valentine, who has been a shaky shooter throughout his career but would have ranked fourth in total 3-pointers for the Cavaliers last year at 80 makes on 33.1 percent efficiency. Another wing asset who can shoot the ball is always helpful.

Meanwhile, Cleveland can hope for improved seasons from Osman and Windler. Last year was an unusual one for Osman, who shot well below his career average. A more consistent performance from Osman would give the Cavaliers some much-needed depth on the wing.

As for Windler, the sophomore prospect has yet to establish himself as a threat in the NBA but was a strong shooter in college. With a bit of luck in the health department, we can be hopeful this is the year Windler emerges as a knock-down catch-and-shoot player for Cleveland.

Of course, Dean Wade’s return will also buff the Cavs’ lineup. Wade clipped nearly 37 percent of his attempts last season and should pick up right where he left off as a high-energy player who makes the most of his limited minutes.

The rotation of Love, Markkanen, Valentine, Wade, Windler and Osman will give the Cavaliers options for when one or more of their shooters are in a slump. Albeit not the greatest collection of snipers — this is the best spacing Cleveland has had in years.