Cavs Have Plenty Of Wings, But Want Another

August 22, 2022

You would think the Cavaliers have a logjam of sorts at the so-called wing positions, also known as small forwards and shooting guards.

But the Cavs don’t seem to think so.

Instead, they are seeking even more help at those spots, as the start of training camp is a just a little more than a month away.

Now, to get things started, let’s take a look at who is already in Cleveland:

Collin Sexton, a restricted free agent, who remains unsigned. While the Cavs have had some of those sign-and-trade talks with the Jazz and Mavericks, it is widely believed he will eventually land back in Cleveland.
Caris LeVert, acquired by the Cavs after Sexton and Ricky Rubio went down with knee3 injuries. LeVert is entering the final year of his contract and the jury is still out on how well he fits. The Cavs are willing to give him at least a full training camp. Like Sexton, LeVert is capable of scoring a bushel of buckets in a matter of minutes.
Isaac Okoro, the former lottery pick who is entering his third season. He has yet to wow anyone, but doesn’t mess up much. But through the first two years, there have been too many times where Okoro sort of looks like he’s just running around out there and not making an actual contribution. Still, Darius Garland didn’t take flight until his third year, and it is therefore likely too soon to give up on Okoro.
Cedi Osman, who fell out of favor under coach J.B. Bickerstaff for part of last season. He also has been the subject of trade talks this offseason. He sure has looked good in EuroBasket play for Turkey, though. No matter, Osman’s immediate future in Cleveland is murky.
Ochai Agbaji, the rookie first-round pick who a lot of people seem to think was a steal at No. 14. Either way, it will likely take him some time to adapt to the size and speed of the NBA game. So expect him to be brought along slowly.
Dylan Windler, who is entering a make-or-break season. That season may or may not take place with the Cavs. If it does, it’s only because he’s emerged in training camp as guy who you can’t afford to keep on the bench.

Now, that list is hardly comprehensive. As we saw last season, the Cavs tend to go big, making 7-foot-0 Lauri Markkanen a “small forward” next to Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. Sometimes, Markkanen is relieved by Dean Wade, who stands 6-foot-9 and is viewed as more of a “stretch four.” Kevin Love basically invented that role in Cleveland.

That’s not all. Garland can play off the ball as a “two.” Same goes for new acquisition Raul Neto. Same goes for Rubio. Oh, and let’s not forget shooting guard RJ Nembhard, who was extended a qualifying offer back in June.

But when you think about, without Sexton’s status still TBD, the Cavs have LeVert, and a bunch of uncertainty. Okoro could be good. Agbaji could be good. And someone such as Osman or Windler could have a breakout season. But we just don’t know.

So perhaps it would make sense for president of basketball operations Koby Altman to explore the market. Not for a star, mind you, but a reliable veteran. You know, just in case.

By all accounts, that is precisely what Altman and the front office are doing as camp looms. The Cavs aren’t desperate, but they are doing their jobs — and that is to always keep your eye out for help, for a fit.