The Cavs 5-man lineup that is dominating opponents

The Cavs’ dominant 5-man lineup: 3. Dean Wade

This isn’t the first time Dean Wade has featured in a 5-man lineup deep dive. I wrote before the season that Wade’s versatility and fit made him a valuable piece of one of the best Cavalier lineups last season despite their struggles.

Things have continued this year too. While a straight swap of Wade for Lauri Markkanen has also yielded significantly positive results (plus-13.2 net per NBA tracking) in nearly double the minutes, Wade’s integration on both ends of the floor is the ideal complement for the strengths of this lineup. On offense, he knows when to set up on the perimeter and when to jump into the action. He’s capable of putting the ball on the floor and finding teammates to keep the offense ticking along. Wade is an underrated gun-slinger with a quick release and has the confidence to launch in a range of situations. The Kansas State product may not be the star of this lineup but he does so much. He just fits.

Defense is a similar story. Wade’s awareness and IQ put him in the right situation most times. The next time you watch him, keep an eye on who is first to pick up a primary offensive player in transition – from Dejounte Murray to Joel Embiid, Wade’s recognition of fast-paced threats is truly impressive. He will be over-zealous sometimes (4.4 fouls per 100 possessions) and he doesn’t possess the fastest feet in the world, but Wade’s versatility on this end allows for schematic grist alongside Mobley and Allen (more on that soon).

Nothing against Lauri Markkanen here, but Wade adds true value to this lineup. The numbers say it. The eye test backs it up. With an almost-inevitable return to Cleveland via team option on a bargain-basement contract next season, Dean Wade continues to make a case for being part of this exciting young core in the future.