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3 hidden gems on the Cleveland Cavaliers’ roster this season

By Tony Pesta

CLEVELAND, OHIO - JANUARY 26: Dean Wade #32 of the Cleveland Cavaliers celebrates after scoring during the third quarter against the Milwaukee Bucks at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on January 26, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Bucks 115-99. 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 Jason Miller/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OHIO - JANUARY 26: Dean Wade #32 of the Cleveland Cavaliers celebrates after scoring during the third quarter against the Milwaukee Bucks at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on January 26, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Bucks 115-99. 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 Jason Miller/Getty Images) /
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3 hidden gems on the Cleveland Cavaliers' roster this season
PORTLAND, OREGON – JANUARY 07: Lamar Stevens # 8 of the Cleveland Cavaliers prepares to shoot a free throw during the second half against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center on January 07, 2022 in Portland, Oregon. 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 Soobum Im/Getty Images) /

Cleveland Cavaliers’ hidden gems: Lamar Stevens

The first of two undrafted players to appear on our list, Lamar Stevens has earned his place in the NBA by being a two-way force for the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Stevens played four seasons at Penn State, averaging 17.6 points and 6.9 rebounds as a senior. The fact that he was a slightly older prospect who lacked an elite skill held Stevens back from being selected in the 2020 NBA Draft.

Instead, Stevens found himself joining the Cavaliers, who were depleted at the wing position in the 2020-21 season. It did not take long for Stevens to flash his potential, slamming down a game-winning dunk versus Atlanta in his 21st game with the Cavs.

Since then, Stevens has built a reputation for being a gritty defender who can guard multiple positions. His athleticism and 6-7, muscular frame give him the physical tools needed to be a versatile perimeter defender.

His opportunities for extended playing time have been limited but Stevens strung together multiple career-high games this season, scoring 17 points versus Golden State and then 23 points on 10-of-15 shooting against Utah in the same week.

Stevens has value as a quality defender and scorer in transition. His three-point shot continues to hold him back (shooting just 32.5 percent) but his silky-smooth mid-range has helped him remain viable in half-court offense.

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