Preseason Record: 2-3
The Cleveland Cavaliers have slowly climbed up the power rankings, debuting at 27 and now landing at 25. That isn’t because of some major change, but simply a team that looks to have actual roster balance this year after injuries and poor construction doomed them a year ago. That, and Evan Mobley has looked really good.
He is still a beanpole and raw offensively, but defensively the No. 3 pick has flashed incredible instincts. He seems to know where to be and how to time his contests, leading to a number of blocks or shot-altering contests. He also has taken rebounds and pushed in transition as the ball-handler, the sort of frontcourt playmaking this team hasn’t had in years.
Darius Garland looks to be on the verge of a breakout season, one that not only puts him into the Most Improved Player conversation but on the fringe of the All-Star one as well. The Cavs also gave some minutes to their “Triple Towers” look of Lauri Markkanen and Evan Mobley at the 3 and 4 flanking Jarrett Allen. Allen is the shortest player of that trio at 6’11”.
Bold Prediction: Collin Sexton is not on the team at the end of the season. The Cavaliers and Collin Sexton have not been able to come to a contract extension as the deadline for rookie extension quickly approaches (October 18th). As a gifted scorer Sexton likely believes himself worth at or near the max. The Cavs likely understand that his lack of supporting skills and small stature as a 2-guard limit his value, as does the fact that Garland looks like their pick (wisely so) as their cornerstone guard. Sexton is not a great fit beside him, and therefore the prediction is that he is traded by the deadline, ideally for someone who can play the 3.