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Cleveland Cavaliers: 3 updated potential starting lineups for 2021-22

By Amadou Sow

Cleveland Cavaliers guard Collin Sexton greets teammates in pregame introductions. (Photo by Lauren Bacho/Getty Images)
Cleveland Cavaliers guard Collin Sexton greets teammates in pregame introductions. (Photo by Lauren Bacho/Getty Images) /
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Jarrett Allen, Cleveland Cavaliers
Cleveland Cavaliers big Jarrett Allen (left) and Cleveland wing Isaac Okoro celebrate after a win. (Photo by Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports) /

Cavs updated potential starting lineup #3 for 2021-22: Garland-Sexton-Okoro-Love-Allen

This last potential starting lineup is the one that’s most likely to happen and that is still a good thing for the Cavaliers. Once Allen was traded for, this was the lineup that the Wine and Gold envisioned but with Love sidelined and injuries continuing to pile up, we weren’t able to see this lineup at its best potential.

In the 85 minutes that this five-man lineup shared together, they were a plus-4.0 points per 100 possessions, per NBA.com’s lineup data. Among Cavs lineups that were in there at least 50 minutes this season, that group had their second-highest net rating.

Again, Garland and Sexton are the go-to scorers in this lineup with Garland being the main facilitator as well. Love is the veteran in this lineup and as stated earlier, his shooting and playmaking abilities as a power forward make him a unique player. Lastly, both Isaac Okoro and Allen are the defensive anchors in this lineup with one excelling on the perimeter and one excelling in the paint.

The biggest keys for this lineup to continue to find success next season would relate to continued growth from the young guys as well as health. A player like Okoro continuing to improve on his shooting and offensive arsenal can allow for him to potentially become that third shot-creator that Cleveland is looking for.

As stated earlier, Allen should continue to expand his game outside of the restricted area and the Sexton-Garland duo should continue to improve on their games with the key for them being to attempt more threes.

This lineup would have it all and would be a good one for next season. This would allow the Cavaliers to focus on surrounding them with corresponding pieces as well as continuing to add talent whether it be through the draft, free agency or via potential trades.

Next. Okoro's close to his rookie season was encouraging. dark

If they are able to do so and if players can stay healthy, the Cavs will have a strong shot at making the playoffs next season.