Cavs NBA Draft Notebook: Do they need to take an instant impact player?

Drafting an instant impact player

There are a lot of reasons to look at this year’s Cavalier team and believe that adding a player in the late-lottery could take this team over the top, especially if the draft falls a certain way. When I’m talking about instant-impact players, I’m talking about players like Bennedict Mathurin and Ochai Ajbaji. Players who have played at the college level for at least two years, and could join an NBA roster right now and make an impact.

During the NCAA Tournament, Agbaji showed off his outside shooting ability, along with his tough defense, and overall basketball IQ. Bennedict Mathruin’s last college game was a 30-point performance that wowed the many scouts in attendance. Those are just two examples, but the Cavs could also take a look a the G-League for both high upside, but instant impact as well.

Jaden Hardy was previously ESPN’s second-ranked recruit from the class of 2021. He was expected to put up Jalen Green like-numbers, while also showing off his insane shot-making. Personally, I think Hardy could have an instant impact on the offensive end for the Cavs. There’s a good chance he’s one of the top three shooters in the draft, and has the capability to create his own shot, while also creating good looks for his teammates.

He didn’t shine this season, but he put up solid numbers against grown men. I’ve been a huge fan of Hardy since the beginning of the G-League season, and I still love his shot-making ability, and offensive potential. He would have to buy-in to the Cavaliers defensive philosophy, but overall he would be a great mix between high upside, and immediate impact.