3 2022 NBA Draft prospects the Cavs could target with their lottery pick

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E.J. Liddell, Ohio State Buckeyes. Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images /

#2: E.J. Liddell

E.J. Liddell was one of the best college players in the nation this year, averaging 19.4 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game while blocking 2.6 shots. Liddell reminds me of a similar basketball player, Obi Toppin. He’s an undersized, but super athletic power forward who can shoot a bit who played in college in the state of Ohio, just like Toppin.

If Cleveland wants a backup big man who can provide offense and be NBA-ready, then Liddell is definitely the one to take if he’s available.

Currently, the backup power forward is Kevin Love, but Love is already 33 years old and is not getting any younger, and another backup big man wouldn’t hurt. Dean Wade can play some backup power forward, but is not as athletic as Liddell is. Is this the best fit? Not really. Kevin Love is definitely going to be off the bench next season, and still should be a very successful bench player as well. Liddell can’t really play center, as he is 6’7,” unless if the Cavalierss want to play a small-ball lineup.

So if I was Koby Altman, I would think hard about drafting Liddell, but ultimately, I would think about another player. Liddell could fill a solid role for Cleveland, in any case.