Pre-Draft Outlook
Just when the Cavaliers seem determined to pursue the ultimate goal in the most methodical way possible — one step at a time, from the SoFi Play-In Tournament in 2022 to the first round in 2023 to the 2024 Eastern Conference semifinals — they go splat without a step forward this time. That had to be especially galling after upping their victory total from 48 to 64 games, only to get smeared now with a “regular-season team” label. They might have a shake-up for its own sake at this point, though it’s not likely any rookie will matter much in 2025-26.
The Way To Go
They’re slated to select at No. 49 and 58. That typically gets you a project, a specialty prospect, fresh legs/six fouls or an NBA G League dweller. There isn’t much this deep roster needs, but some backcourt length and a 3-and-D guy more reliable from the corners than Isaac Okoro might be nice. This draft isn’t won’t patch the leak that sprang in the Cavaliers in the semifinals. Grit and toughness rarely come from rookies, period.
— Steve Aschburner
Here’s a quick look at Cleveland’s current roster entering the Draft:
Under Contract
G: Darius Garland
G: Javonte Gren
G: Donovan Mitchell
G: Craig Porter Jr.
G/F: Max Strus
G/F: Jaylon Tyson
F/G: De’Andre Hunter
F/G: Isaac Okoro
F: Nae’Quan Tomlin
F/C: Dean Wade
C: Jarrett Allen
C: Evan Mobley
Free Agents
G: Javonte Green
G: Sam Merrill
G/F: Ty Jerome
F: Emoni Bates
F: Chuma Okeke
F: Luke Travers
C/F: Tristan Thompson