King James Gospel
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Cleveland Cavaliers: 5 early season targets to keep an eye on

By Nathan Beighle

LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 29: Wesley Matthews
LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 29: Wesley Matthews /
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WASHINGTON, DC – NOVEMBER 7: Nerlens Noel #3 of the Dallas Mavericks dunks against the Washington Wizards on November 7, 2017 at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Ned Dishman/NBAE via Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC – NOVEMBER 7: Nerlens Noel #3 of the Dallas Mavericks dunks against the Washington Wizards on November 7, 2017 at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Ned Dishman/NBAE via Getty Images) /

 Target #5: Nerlens Noel — the Mavericks rim-protector

Nerlens Noel, while young and still full of potential, is squandering away in Dallas. On a team that is just 2-13, the 23-year-old Noel is playing just 15.2 minutes per game. Noel’s specialty is defense, and the Cleveland Cavaliers could use a defensive specialist as they are the worst defensive team in the NBA with a rating of 110.6.

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On the other hand, Nerlens Noel has significantly enhanced Dallas’ defense while on the court. Overall, the Mavericks have a defensive rating 108.6, and Noel’s personal rating is over four points lower at 104. Averaging a career-low in blocks and steals at just 0.7 each, Noel’s minutes reflect in his averages; however, per 36 minutes, Noel averages 1.7 of each and would easily lead the Cavaliers in both categories.

Noel is a free agent after this season, and most likely will not sign back with the Mavericks, who will be one of the worst teams in the NBA this season. That said, just like most of the players on this list, the Mavericks’ management should consider trading Noel for a pick or some type of assets and not just letting him walk with no return.

It’s about time Nerlens Noel finds an NBA home where he will truly thrive, and Cleveland could be that place.