Way-too-early 2020 Cleveland Cavaliers NBA draft targets
#5 Pick – Deni Avdija, Israel, SG/SF
In what would be the worst-case scenario for the Cavs, if they were to drop to the number five pick, they should use it on Israeli wing Deni Avdija.
It is always risky to select a European player early in the draft because it’s been tough to determine how their game will translate from the Euroleague to the NBA.
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However, the NBA is getting closer to a Euroleague style and Euroleague players have begun to be hit on more lately. Players like Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis have been massively productive in their short careers when they’ve been healthy.
Avdija would be a nice fit with the Cavaliers as they need some depth on the wing, the frontcourt is rather thin as the roster currently stands. This would be a pick where the Cavs draft for both talent and need.
He is very young at only 18 years old. Avdija has massive upside with excellent size at 6’8”. He is a very skilled wing who shoots it at an above-average clip and can get red hot from three. He is a little thin and isn’t the most athletic player.
He makes up for his lack of bulk and athleticism with his skill. He is also a very good passer for his size. He would be a great fit for the Cavaliers’ current roster.