The Cleveland Cavaliers continue their commitment to developing a competitive squad with a strong foundation of young talent, as evidenced by their latest move. The team has agreed to a three-year, $38 million contract with Isaac Okoro, solidifying the future of the 22-year-old rising star. Okoro, the last remaining restricted free agent on the market, will stay with the team that picked him No. 5 overall in the 2020 NBA Draft.
Okoro has demonstrated considerable progress over his tenure with the Cavaliers, showcasing his potential on both ends of the floor. Last season, he averaged 9.4 points, three rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. Impressively, he shot a career-high 39.1% from beyond the arc on 3.1 three-point attempts per game, a notable improvement that enhances his value as a versatile wing player.
Building Around Young Talent
The Cavaliers have spent this offseason securing their core group of young stars. In addition to re-signing Okoro, the team has locked in Donovan Mitchell with a three-year, $150 million extension, Evan Mobley with a five-year, $224 million extension, and Jarrett Allen with a three-year, $91 million extension. This strategy underscores the Cavaliers' commitment to fostering a progressive and dynamic roster.
Despite this strong core, last season ended in disappointment for the Cavaliers as they were eliminated in the second round of the playoffs by the Boston Celtics. However, the playoff run was significant for multiple reasons. It marked the Cavaliers' first postseason appearance since LeBron James' second departure and also their first playoff series victory without James since 1993.
Changes in Leadership
Following their playoff exit, the Cavaliers made a pivotal change in leadership by parting ways with head coach JB Bickerstaff. In June, they appointed Kenny Atkinson as the new head coach. Known for his developmental prowess and strategic insight, Atkinson brings a new approach to the Cavaliers' coaching staff, aiming to maximize the potential of their youthful roster.
Okoro's new contract indicates the franchise's belief in his ability to become a key piece of the puzzle. With 42 starts under his belt from last season, Okoro has shown he's ready for an expanded role. His defensive tenacity and burgeoning offensive skills are expected to be critical factors under Atkinson's system, which emphasizes player development and tactical awareness.
Looking Forward
The Cavaliers' strategy appears clear: build a team capable of competing at the highest levels by securing their young, talented players. Re-signing Okoro is just one piece of that puzzle, but it represents a significant step towards the future. With Atkinson at the helm, the hopes are high that the mix of proven stars and promising youngsters will translate into sustained success.
As the Cavaliers prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on how this new-look squad gels under Atkinson's leadership. The team’s ability to incorporate Okoro's evolving skill set alongside their other young talents will likely be a decisive factor in their quest to ascend the Eastern Conference ladder. It's an exciting time for Cavaliers fans, who are eager to see if their team's offseason moves can translate into playoff success and beyond.