The Cleveland Cavaliers have made a strong commitment to their search for future success by locking up one of their key young pieces, Isaac Okoro, with a three-year, $38 million deal. This agreement caps off a significant offseason for the Cavaliers, who have invested extensively in their core roster, aiming to build a competitive squad around their young talent.
Isaac Okoro, the No. 5 overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, was the last remaining restricted free agent on the market. His new contract signifies the Cavaliers' trust in his potential and his importance to the team's future. Since entering the league, Okoro has spent his entire career with the Cavaliers, steadily improving his game and becoming a pivotal part of the lineup.
Last season, Okoro averaged 9.4 points, three rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. Perhaps more impressively, he shot a career-high 39.1% from beyond the arc on 3.1 three-point attempts per game during the 2023-24 season. This development in his shooting is critical for a Cavaliers team that is looking to enhance its offensive options and space the floor more effectively.
A Busy Offseason for the Cavaliers
The Cavaliers' commitment to their roster extends beyond Okoro. During the offseason, the team agreed to several significant extensions with key players. Star guard Donovan Mitchell signed a three-year, $150 million extension, ensuring his continued presence as a leading scorer and playmaker. Meanwhile, young forward Evan Mobley secured a five-year, $224 million extension, reflecting his rising status as one of the league's premier defensive talents and versatile big men.
Additionally, the Cavaliers extended their relationship with center Jarrett Allen, signing him to a three-year, $91 million deal. Allen's rim protection and rebounding prowess are vital to the team's defensive schemes, making his retention essential for their aspirations.
Playoff Performance and Coaching Changes
Despite a promising regular season, the Cavaliers were eliminated in the second round of the playoffs by the Boston Celtics. This playoff appearance was significant as it marked the Cavaliers' first postseason showing since LeBron James' second departure from the team. Furthermore, the team won a playoff series without James for the first time since 1993, signaling a potential turning point for the franchise.
Following their playoff exit, the Cavaliers decided to part ways with head coach JB Bickerstaff. In June, they brought in Kenny Atkinson as the new head coach. Atkinson is known for his developmental abilities and strategic expertise, which the Cavaliers hope will help maximize the potential of their young core and bring about sustained success.
Future Outlook
With Okoro's contract extension finalized, the Cavaliers have further solidified their core group of young, talented players. The front office's strategic investments in Mitchell, Mobley, Allen, and now Okoro indicate a clear and consistent plan to build a team capable of competing at the highest levels. As coach Kenny Atkinson takes the helm, there is cautious optimism in Cleveland about the team's future prospects.
While the Cavs face the challenge of competing in a tough Eastern Conference, their focus on development and continuity suggests that they are on the right path. The combination of seasoned players and developing stars provides a balanced roster that could potentially make deeper playoff runs and, eventually, compete for an NBA Championship.
All eyes will be on Isaac Okoro to see if he can take the next step in his career and further justify the investment the Cavaliers have made in him. His growth, combined with the performances of his extended teammates, will be crucial in determining how far this iteration of the Cavaliers can go.
As the new season approaches, the Cavaliers and their fans have much to look forward to. With a fresh start under coach Kenny Atkinson and an ensemble of young talent ready to shine, the stage is set for what could be an exciting chapter in Cleveland basketball.