Mario Hezonja’s improved shooting could be exactly what Cavs need

Mario Hezonja may be returning to the NBA as a much better shooter than when he left it. That’s at least part of the intrigue for the Cavaliers.

Kevin O’Connor of Yahoo Sports pointed to one area in particular after Hezonja agreed to a one-year, $2.8 million contract with Cleveland — his improved perimeter shooting.

As O’Connor relayed, Hezonja shot 38.4 percent on catch-and-shoot 3-pointers during his four seasons with Real Madrid.

That’s notable because outside shooting was never particularly reliable during Hezonja’s first NBA stint. The former No. 5 overall pick connected on just 31.9 percent of his 3-point attempts during five seasons in the league.

“If his improvement translates, he can be an additive piece for the Cavaliers,” O’Connor wrote.

That’s the bet, or at least part of it. Hezonja, 31, has spent the past six seasons overseas and developed into a much more accomplished player than he was when he left the NBA in 2020.

Shams Charania of ESPN reported that the Warriors also showed strong interest before Hezonja chose the Cavs. Charania added that Hezonja is expected to play a key role on the wing for the defending Eastern Conference finalists.

The Cavs certainly have a need there after losing Dean Wade and Keon Ellis this offseason. They also need size, shooting and another option alongside Donovan Mitchell, James Harden, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen.

Hezonja doesn’t have to be a star. If the shooting improvement he showed in Europe follows him back to the NBA, he could be exactly the type of useful piece the Cavs have been seeking.