Cleveland Cavaliers: Could igniting Rodney Hood save the Finals for Cleveland?
We’ve yet to see what Rodney Hood is capable of, and if the Cleveland Cavaliers could return him to his Jazz form, he could save this Finals run.
Whether it be anxiety, pride, or selfishness, Rodney Hood has not been the player the Cleveland Cavaliers thought they traded for. In his place, the Cavs have played Jordan Clarkson, a player that has been far from spectacular this postseason.
The saga of Hood started when his role had been slowly waning throughout the postseason. Then, Hood refused to go in late during a blowout Cavs victory. That’s when fans realized that Hood’s issues had extended off the court as well as on the court.
For Hood, his skill set and ability to create his own shot make him a valuable asset. But, as a restricted free agent this offseason, Hood might find himself a new home this postseason if he can’t prove to contribute.
However, first, he’ll need another opportunity.
We all know Hood has been far less than ideal this postseason. But, he shot over 40% from the field and hasn’t turned it over much in the minutes he’s been given.
Hood, who’s seen his spot in the rotation taken from him, has also seen Jordan Clarkson continue to receive minutes, minutes in which he’s easily been the worst and most immature Cavalier player. From missing wide open shots to drive out of control through the lane, Clarkson’s decline could lead to Hood’s opportunity.
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Hood’s minutes earlier this postseason came mainly when James took a rest. But, with James playing 44+ minutes, Hood’s opportunities, regardless of his off-court issues, would’ve eventually been limited.
While this might be Hood’s first Finals, his struggles have been inexcusable. This season, before being traded to Cleveland, he averaged 16.8 points per game including 2.6 threes per game on 39% from downtown. Cavs all-star Kevin Love barely averaged more points per game than Hood did in Utah.
That showed us that his skill is there.
The Cavs just don’t know how to bring out the best in Hood, but his play could be the icing on the cake during these Finals. His entire career he’s made a living off being a lengthy, unblockable 6-foot-7 left-handed small forward that gritty both offensively and defensively.
If the Cavs lose Game 2, they’ll have no choice but to give Hood a chance.
The Cavs shot just 27% from deep in Game 1. If they repeat that in Game 2 while keeping one of their best shooters on the bench, they might be forced to mend their broken relationship with Hood.
He’s not been the best on-court player, but his dynamic play style should help ease the pressure from James.
But, will he get that opportunity?
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For both Hood and Cleveland’s sake, let’s hope so.