Cavs: Predicting their starting lineup, rotation after free agency

Predicting the Cavs’ backups after free agency

Backup PG: Ricky Rubio

The Cavs flipped Taurean Price, overpriced and at a position where Cleveland was loaded, to the Minnesota Timberwolves for Ricky Rubio, who is also slightly overpriced but fills a need at backup point guard. Rubio may be a step slower than he was in his athletic prime, but he is a clever passer, tough defender and not a complete minus as a shooter.

Backup Wing: Dylan Windler

Injuries have robbed Dylan Windler of making an impact to this point in his career, but if he can stay healthy he has valuable skills to bring to the team. At 6’6″ he is equipped to take on 2s and 3s, and he projects as a 3-and-D wing with some ballhandling chops. Health is a big “if” for the player who missed his rookie season and played just 31 games a year ago.

Backup Wing: Cedi Osman

Cedi Osman is going to have a regular rotation role despite his very mediocre production. The 6’7″ small forward has scored at an ok clip but doesn’t bring much else to the table, including wildly inconsistent 3-point shooting. The Cavs need him because they don’t have many other options, but he is likely a minimum guy on his next deal.

Backup Forward: Kevin Love

Another player for whom injuries have reared their ugly head, the former All-NBA big man was unable to compete in the Tokyo Olympics due to injury. He was limited to only 25 games last year. Since his third season, however, Love has started every game he has ever played, so moving to the bench would be both a new rhythm and a disappointing one for him. If he is healthy, his shooting will never age and he should be able to provide some value (ignoring his contract) for whatever team adds him, either via trade or the buyout market.

Backup Forward: Larry Nance Jr.

Nance is the do-it-all forward who brings high-level defense and does whatever is required of him on offense. He is strong and athletic, which allows him to survive in the post and protect the rim. He is quick enough to switch out onto the perimeter as needed. His shot is inconsistent but he is a plus passer, a good rebounder and fills all sorts of holes in whatever lineup he’s in.