3 burning questions the Cavs should answer before the playoffs

Burning question #1: Is the team content with the players currently on the roster?

As we talked about in the previous slide, the Cavaliers have issues on the team regarding health. Injuries to Garland, Sexton, Rondo, and LeVert mean that the team’s top four guards are expected to miss extended time, with Sexton likely out for the rest of the season. This doesn’t even include Ricky Rubio’s season-ending injury that allowed for the LeVert trade to happen, given his expiring contract.

Garland, Rondo, and LeVert’s injuries aren’t major and all three could be back sometime this upcoming week, and for Rondo, the following. These injuries have also led to Tim Frazier signing a 10-day contract with the team, though.

Still, even with recent moves, shot creation on the team is a question mark. Garland and LeVert are expected be the go-to guys but what players can step up with them? Lauri Markkanen’s return brings another shot maker but he isn’t someone who can effectively dribble the ball and create his own shot. Rajon Rondo brings great veteran experience and facilitating but how much will the 36-year-old provide come playoff time?

A buyout market move made sense a couple of weeks ago but with guys like Kemba Walker, Dennis Schroder, and Gary Harris all expected to remain with their teams, the options are slim. Isaiah Thomas, Michael Carter-Williams, and D.J. Augustin are likely choices but do those guys move the needle for the team?

Once the playoffs come around, the rotation gets smaller and the Cavs are expected to rely more on Darius Garland and Caris LeVert. A move to add another ball-handler wouldn’t hurt but it isn’t a pressing need with the options available.

Speaking more on LeVert, prior to the playoffs, his role should be clearer but still poses another question.