Koby Altman Says Cavs Seek Shooting, As Changes Likely on Way

INDEPENDENCE, Ohio — Cavaliers president of basketball operations Koby Altman saw what the rest of the world did in the team’s first-round loss to the Knicks in the first round of the Eastern Conference playoffs.

So he said he understands the Cavs could use another transactional phase this summer to add some pieces.

Namely, another big man and additional perimeter shooting.

“We would love to add some level of shooting that could give our guys more space,” Altman told reporters.

The Cavs finished 51-31, good enough for second place in the Central Division and the fourth seed in the East. But they quickly lost home-court advantage vs. the Knicks, as being outmuscled near the basket became a major issue right from the opening tip in Game 1. It never really got any better.

“No roster is perfect,” Altman said. “As you go through the playoffs, you can see different weaknesses in different teams. Again, I re-focus it back to what we have in-house, and how excited we are about those guys and their upside and their development. They’re just getting started. 

“… So that’s why you don’t overreact to this one series. Knowing what you have in-house and the runway you do have. We will look at all opportunities like we always have.”

In other words, the Cavs aren’t like to make any major splashes this offseason, instead looking to add reserve help to the likes of the core of Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen.

Beyond that, though, it’s hard to know who will be brought back. For instance, Caris LeVert is eligible for free agency and the Cavs hold a team option/guarantee date on the contract of Cedi Osman.

Hoops Wire sources indicated that the Cavs will be looking to bring back LeVert, who has indicated he would like to stay in Cleveland. Osman, however, very well could be cut loose, sources indicated. Along with that, given that the Cavs are short on draft picks, Isaac Okoro could be floated as a name in trade talks over the summer.

Danny Green, Robin Lopez and Raul Neto are not expected to return. So no less than four or five roster spots may be up for grabs next season.

“This group, we’re super proud of,” Altman said. “So we will invest in this group and give them the runway they deserve.”

 Coach J.B. Bickerstaff‘s job is safe heading into next season, sources added.

#Cavs president Koby Altman emphasizes adding a level of shooting to stretch the floor, but also knows there is more development to come from their core talent in-house: “No roster is perfect.” pic.twitter.com/bqEMhhEDqM

— Spencer Davies (@SpinDavies) April 28, 2023