The Cleveland Cavaliers made drastic changes at the trade deadline, and one such change was a trade to bring in Jordan Clarkson, which has reaped benefits.
After just two games (both away against high-quality teams), Jordan Clarkson has proven to be one of the X-factors for the Cleveland Cavaliers. In my opinion, an X-factor is a player, usually taken for granted, that can change the dynamic of a game.
Being traded to a top-tier, championship-caliber team not only lit a spark under the Cavs new additions but LeBron himself. This entire team, including JR Smith, looks rejuvenated and ready to run the table in the second.
One reason for their recent success has been the addition of Jordan Clarkson. For a player like Clarkson, the transition immediately gives him something to play for. In his first three seasons as a Laker, the subpar Lakers were a combined 54-182. That means, Clarkson’s late-season and postseason inexperience can be one of the few reasonable concerns for Cavs fans.
In his first two games as a Cavalier, Clarkson has proven to be the spark the Cavaliers have needed. Off the bench, Clarkson has led one of the league’s best second units and has impressed with his vision, shooting, and tenacity to improve both himself and his team.
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Even with George Hill at point, the Cavaliers still lack a point guard that creates for others. LeBron James is challenged to be the main facilitator on the starting unit, while that challenge seemingly has dropped on Clarkson for the team’s second unit. While not overly impressive, Clarkson has averaged 2.5 assists per game and has committed just one turnover in over 45 minutes of action.
Clarkson’s role is simple: Score. That he has done in his mere two games for Cleveland. While not sustainable, Clarkson is shooting just under 62% from the field. His high percentages have helped him score in volume, averaging almost 16 points per game.
Clarkson, who put up at least 14 points per game in every season in Los Angeles, was underappreciated. With his current platform, it might not be long before Clarkson is a household name, especially if he shines like a diamond in the NBA Finals, a place LeBron James and the Cavaliers hope to be come June.
As for the other side of the court, Clarkson has never been considered an above-average defender, however, with the Cleveland Cavaliers maybe that could change. Since his arrival in Cleveland, the Cavs have put up a sub-100 defensive rating with Clarkson on the floor, albeit the Cavs have played in just two games with Clarkson. Tack on a steal per game to that and it seems Clarkson will continue to be exactly what Cleveland needed.
With a +12.0 +/-, Clarkson’s energy, unselfishness, and playmaking have been a treat to see in Cleveland.
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As the Cavaliers are about to get about a week off for the all-star weekend festivities, be ready for this team to come back and continue to take the Eastern Conference by storm.