The Cleveland Cavaliers have made a decisive move in their ongoing effort to build a competitive squad by signing Isaac Okoro to a three-year, $38 million deal. The commitment to Okoro signifies a continuation of the Cavaliers' strategy to nurture and develop young talent.
Isaac Okoro, who was the No. 5 overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, has spent his entire professional career with the Cavaliers. Now solidified as a key piece of the team’s future, Okoro’s new deal comes after a season in which he showed significant growth and promise. Last season, Okoro posted averages of 9.4 points, three rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game and achieved a career-high 39.1% shooting from beyond the arc on 3.1 three-point attempts per game. This marksmanship from downtown demonstrates Okoro's ongoing development as a well-rounded offensive player. Additionally, he started in 42 games, highlighting his importance to the squad.
Building Around Young Talent
Okoro was the last remaining restricted free agent on the market, and the Cavaliers' decision to secure him reflects their broader commitment to building around their young stars. This offseason, the Cavaliers have been busy inking substantial extensions with other key players. They agreed to a three-year, $150 million extension with Donovan Mitchell, reflecting their belief in his scoring prowess and leadership abilities. Furthermore, the team secured Evan Mobley with a five-year, $224 million extension. Mobley’s versatility and defensive capabilities make him indispensable for the Cavaliers' long-term ambitions. Not to be overlooked, Jarrett Allen also received a three-year, $91 million extension, anchoring the team's defensive post play and rebounding efforts.
With these moves, Cleveland is clearly positioning itself to be a formidable force in the NBA for years to come. The recent flurry of signings underscores the organization’s strategy—building a competitive squad around a core of rising stars, each with the potential to take the team deeper into the playoffs.
A Season of Milestones
The Cavaliers' efforts began to bear fruit last season. They were eliminated in the second round of the playoffs by the Boston Celtics, but the postseason run was historic for multiple reasons. It marked the Cavaliers' first trip to the playoffs since LeBron James' second departure from the team. The milestone also saw the Cavaliers win a playoff series without James for the first time since 1993, signifying a new era of resurgence for the franchise.
Changes at the Helm
Despite the encouraging strides, the Cavaliers opted for a change in leadership by firing head coach JB Bickerstaff following their playoff exit. In June, the team hired Kenny Atkinson as the new head coach. Atkinson, known for his developmental acumen and strategic approach, is expected to cultivate the young talent on the roster and maximize their potential.
Atkinson's hiring aligns with the Cavaliers' vision of progression and growth. His reputation for player development fits seamlessly with a team that is heavily invested in nurturing its youthful core. He will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the Cavs' future trajectory.
As the Cavaliers gear up for the upcoming season, the recent multi-million dollar commitments to Okoro, Mitchell, Mobley, and Allen indicate a franchise that is not just looking to make the playoffs but to make some noise once they get there. With a blend of rising stars and a coach skilled in developing talent, the Cavaliers are poised to rewrite their narrative in the post-LeBron era.