#2: Avdija’s wing defense could really aid the Cleveland Cavaliers
Avdija again has very good feel as a rotator on the defensive end, and can get steals by getting into passing lanes and/or as a stunter to drivers.
Additionally, though, he could provide Cleveland with a wing defensive upgrade over Osman in coming years, and I’d imagine early on as a rookie.
Avdija’s lateral quickness is better than that of Osman’s, which should help him limit penetration and he is disciplined in regards to his closeouts, both to off-the-bounce shooters and via off-screen/spot-up situations.
With the Wine and Gold having their share of issues when it comes to wing defense in recent seasons, Avdija’s capabilities in that realm could really aid the Cavaliers and his activity off the ball while staying in position to be in the right spots on-ball still could help out Sexton, Garland, KPJ, Dylan Windler (hopefully and in instances at the 2 some) and others.
Along with the wing defensive element, Avdija could appear at times at the 4 spot for Cleveland, and while at 220 pounds, some bigger 4’s could give him issues, against more stretch 4 type players and/or face-up 4’s, Avdija could aid Cleveland there in some lineups.
More so Avdija’s defense on the wing, though, thanks to good lateral quickness, anticipation and sound closeouts I believe could help the Cavs and could factor into them progressing toward being a winner in coming years.