The Cavs should play Collin Sexton and Dante Exum together more often
By Mason Cole
Exum could pick up some of the defensive slack with Sexton on the floor for the Cleveland Cavaliers
The first reason why is because of Exum’s ability to pick up some of the defensive slack that comes with Sexton on the floor. It is no secret that Collin Sexton has not been elite when it has comes to his defensive ability.
More from King James Gospel
- 3 possible starting lineups for Cleveland Cavaliers in 2023-24
- The Cavaliers may have snagged a hidden gem in Craig Porter Jr.
- 4 players the Cavaliers should pursue in 2024 free agency
- 6 players Cavaliers might replace Jarrett Allen with by the trade deadline
- This stat is one to keep an eye on for Cavaliers’ Max Strus in years ahead
He simply seems over-matched in most of his defensive matchups, and it doesn’t help that since switching to the shooting guard position he has had to play bigger, faster, stronger guards.
With Sexton’s defensive struggles, playing him more minutes with Dante Exum would seem to make sense. Since being drafted in 2014 by Utah, Exum has always been a solid on-ball defender.
Even through struggles of injuries and inconsistencies, Exum was always able to contribute defensively when on the court. His length, quickness, and defensive skill could help make up for the lack there of when considering Sexton.
If Sexton could have a solid defender in Exum playing next to him more often, he would be better able to focus on scoring. That is what the Cavaliers should be hoping for, too, in a backcourt that allows Sexton to reach his full scoring potential.
Obviously everyone should hope that Sexton eventually improves defensively, but pairing him in lineups with Exum more frequently next season would at least help lessen some of his defensive burden for the time being, ideally allowing him to continue scoring at a high level.
The second reason why Sexton and Exum should play together more often has to do with the offensive end.