One stud and one dud for Cavs in win over Pacers on Sunday

Cavs stud: Evan Mobley

Allen had another good game and Love continues to be strong off the bench, but it had to be Evan Mobley here. For the game Mobley led all scorers with 24 points, and along with that, had 9 rebounds and 4 assists, and shot 11-of-16 from the field. Mobley continues to contest shots and alter shots in an impactful way as he did in this game, although he did have some trouble at times matched up against Domantas Sabonis, who had 32 points and 7 assists against Cleveland’s defense.

However, Mobley did come up with some clutch defensive sequences and helped the team defense, but what needs to be said is what Mobley’s showing offensively as well.

Mobley as a rookie is one of the best defenders in the league and could potentially make an All-Defensive Team, which is unheard of as a rookie. He’s really, really good offensively and continues to get better and look more comfortable, too, even with that. He’s shown potential as a three-point shooter, but his mid-range game is already consistent and the same can be said about his post fadeaway which is one of his go-to moves.

The Cavs went to him late in the game and Mobley was able to deliver some clutch buckets. Guys Mobley’s size shouldn’t be able to move the way he moves (only a few can at that size), but Mobley also is very skilled and has great touch around the rim as well. Mobley is special defensively, however, he’s really rare offensively for his age as a big, too, so you can tell he’s going to be special on that end additionally.

Rookies and guys this young typically aren’t this from the start and don’t impact winning this much, which is why Mobley is the clear frontrunner for Rookie of the Year at this point.