Cavs Additions: Ranking David Griffin’s Players

Mar 10, 2015; Dallas, TX, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Timofey Mozgov (20) shoots prior to the game against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Quickly we need to remind you that this is a list of impactful players, not based on their talent level. This is no slight to Kevin Love, or any other player. When Griffin made the move for Timofey Mozgov many, include this writer, questioned whether he gave up too much for a player with little statistical impact. Boy were we, I, wrong.

Mozgov has transformed the Cavs on both ends of the floor. Most hoped he could impact the Cavs then porous defense. He has done more than that. His pure size has allowed him to take up space, bang down low and get in the way of opponents. He can hold his own 1 on 1 but his best talent is as a help defender. With his length, decent quickness and jumping ability he causes problems for drivers and slashers but can also switch out on smaller players adequately.

Mozgov’s presence on defense has allowed the Cavs to be more aggressive with their on the ball defense and, when beat, not give up uncontested layups. Mozgov not only blocks shots but he alters them and even deters players from shooting near him. With Timo in the lane, the Cavs often leak out after getting beat by their man. This has allowed for plenty of run out opportunities after Timo defends the rim. Easy baskets for the offense.

On the offensive end is where the Wizard of Moz has had a surprising impact. He has shown some range, not quite Big Z’s yet but still good, post moves and is a great alley oop partner. His presence diving to the rim after pick and rolls has given the Cavs plenty of weakside, wide open 3 point looks. LeBron and Kyrie often get to pick their poison. An easy dunk for Timo or an open 3 for someone else. Defenses are in a no win situation there.

Timofey Mozgov’s overall size on both ends of the floor has been huge for the Cavs and Griffin made the right decision to give up whatever he had to for the move to work.

Next: Any Love for Love at #3?