#2: Dellavedova is back where he belongs
Either way, the Cleveland Cavaliers and their fans are likely thrilled to see Dellavedova, or as he’s often referred to, “Delly,” back in the Wine and Gold. As a member of the Cavaliers, Dellavedova made quality decisions as a second unit point guard and brought constant tenacity and hustle on the defensive end of the floor.
As a member of the Cavs, he had a key role on a contending squad, and in his time in Cleveland had averages of 5.7 points and 3.4 assists in 21.0 minutes per game. Dellavedova had a significant role in 2016-17 in his first season with the Bucks, but has since played sparingly.
On Cleveland, it’s unclear what kind of role Delly will have, as Sexton should continue to have starting minutes, and both Jordan Clarkson and Alec Burks will have playmaking duties on the second unit.
More from Cavs Analysis
- The Cavaliers may have snagged a hidden gem in Craig Porter Jr.
- This stat is one to keep an eye on for Cavaliers’ Max Strus in years ahead
- Projecting how much Cavs’ 3 two-way signings might play this season
- 4 Cavaliers looking to make a name for themselves in training camp
- Mitchell’s numbers getting trimmed a bit wouldn’t be bad thing for Cavaliers
That being said, with Burks’ expiring contract and solid play potentially making him a trade piece near the February trade deadline in a few months, I could see Delly getting a considerable minutes share this season.
I admit, I was wrong in thinking Burks probably wouldn’t have a considerable role this early, but he’s been great with Cleveland. That being said, that expiring deal could draw in some postseason teams needing a bench scoring lift, and the rebuilding Cavs should be entertaining any and all offers.
Along with Dellavedova’s fan favorite style of play and spot-up three-point shooting ability (as he’s a career 38.7 percent three-point shooter) which could play in well in replacing Hill, his contract is up after the 2019-2020 season (per Spotrac), so the Cavaliers aren’t totally tied into him long-term. For the rest of Delly’s contract, I’d expect him to be a positive influence in the locker room, on the floor, and his competitiveness fits well on the same squad as the uber-intense Sexton.
The third and final benefit for the Cavs?