2018 NBA Free Agency: Ranking the Cleveland Cavaliers top 25 options
No. 25: Ed Davis
Ed Davis, while not a player that would noticeably shrink the gap, would offer some rim protection that Tristan Thompson doesn’t provide. He’s also a dynamic rebounder.
Throughout his career, Davis has bounced around the league, yet the former Tar Heel has spent his last three seasons in Portland, being their main big man off the bench. During those three seasons, Davis has averaged just under 20 minutes per game.
Last season, Davis posted a 103.9 defensive rating. While a team stat, his presence was a major force in making that possible. He averaged 0.7 blocks per game and 1.3 per 36 minutes. However, just like Thompson, his presence isn’t necessarily displayed well through concrete numbers.
It’s his energy, his grit, and his contract that should most intrigue Cleveland. If they could trade Thompson away, they could sign his replacement, Ed Davis, for far less.
If not, Davis would still be a quality addition to the roster for a cheap price.