5 2022 NBA Draft prospects that could make immediate impact for Cavs

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Tari Eason, LSU Tigers. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) /

#4: Tari Eason

Tari Eason is one of my favorite 2022 NBA Draft prospects for the Cavs. He doesn’t necessarily fit a need, but that’s not such a bad thing considering he’s one of the best defenders in the draft.

If the Cavs were to select Eason with their first-round pick, they would be a defensive juggernaut this next season. They would have almost no flaws on that end of the floor with a frontcourt of Tari Eason, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen. Opposing teams would have fits over trying to score on them. It would be a sight to see.

In 2021-22, Eason won the Sixth Man of the Year award playing for the LSU Tigers. Coming off the bench, he was a force on defense. He averaged 1.9 steals per game (5th in the SEC), 1.1 blocks per game (9th in the SEC) and had a defensive rating of 83.2 (2nd in the SEC).

At 6’8″, 215 pounds, Eason frustrated opponents to no end. He used his long arms and extreme athleticism to discombobulate opposing offenses and force bad shots. He was a disruptor at LSU and there’s no reason to believe these traits won’t translate to the NBA immediately.

Defensive traits translate to any level. He has an NBA body matched with outstanding athleticism and a defensive mindset. He is going to be an annoying player to try and score on.

His only downfall is his lack of offensive consistency. He’s a spotty shooter and doesn’t possess the skill to shoot off the dribble. He has a quick first step, but his offensive game is predictable as he relies on his athleticism to put up points. This is something that might not translate to the NBA as well as his defense.

He does show glimpses of hope on offense with improving shooting mechanics and strong attacks to the basket, he just has some polishing to do in the offseason. However, offense is not what Eason would be drafted for. He would turn the Cavaliers’ already good defense into an elite defense; maybe the best in the NBA. This is why he should be close to the top of most big boards for the Cavs heading into the draft.