Cavs: Weighing in on ESPN’s ranking of 4 CLE players

The Cleveland Cavaliers‘ young core is finally receiving the recognition it deserves.

ESPN has released their annual ranking on what they believe to be the best 100 players in the NBA, beginning with 100-51. The Cavaliers have four players in Jarrett Allen, Darius Garland, Lauri Markkanen, and Collin Sexton making the list (assuming that’s it heading into 2021-22) and rightfully so.

Quickly discussing those chosen, these players are the best players on the team so it shouldn’t be an argument in that sense.

So where does each said Cavalier rank amongst the league’s best?

Cavs: Weighing in on Garland’s #84 ranking by ESPN

Last season was a very promising one for the young point guard after an underwhelming rookie season. On the season, Garland averaged 17.4 points and 6.1 assists per game on 45.1/39.5/84.8 shooting splits. What makes this more impressive is that the Cavaliers had limited spacing and lacked overall talent, putting more of an offensive burden on Garland.

Not only did Garland’s play help to accelerate the team’s rebuild, but it gives the Cavs their best lead guard since Kyrie Irving.

Looking at how he fares amongst his peers, they have him above guards like John Wall and Devonte’ Graham and below guards like Cade Cunningham, Dejounte Murray, and Terry Rozier.

Of the bunch, the argument should be made for Garland over Murray and he should certainly be over Cunningham. Statistics show Garland being a better scorer, shooter, and playmaker than Murray. Of course, context can be used for both players but at face value, Garland should be ranked above.

Looking at Cunningham, the argument is simple. There is no reason a player who averaged more points than Mike Conley and Chris Paul and more assists than Stephen Curry and Kyrie Irving be ranked lower than a player who hasn’t played a single NBA game, no matter what he is projected to do.