Cavs dominate poll of NBA execs on young players to build around

Cavs dominate poll of NBA execs: Evan Mobley is #4

The top three young players on the NBA execs’ polls were young but proven stars. Luka Doncic  of the Dallas Mavericks finished first and was the only unanimous vote-getter; Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics and Ja Morant of the Memphis Grizzlies were second and third, respectively. All three made All-NBA teams last year.

Then we come to Evan Mobley, who leaped up past a number of players who have already made an All-Star Game in the league. The rising sophomore looks like a future two-way superstar, the foundation of what the Cleveland Cavaliers are building, and NBA execs seem locked in on his future potential.

It’s somewhat surprising to see that Mobley ranked above Scottie Barnes (seventh) as Barnes beat him in the Rookie of the Year race last year. He also checks in above Zion Williamson and Anthony Edwards, two offensively spectacular players. Mobley’s defensive production (5th in the NBA in blocks last season as a rookie) and versatility are incredibly special and something no other player on the list can boast.

Mobley’s trajectory is pointed straight up, and it isn’t impossible that he will one day top this poll before he ages out. Offensive shot creation is the league’s most important skill, and Mobley lags behind players such as Edwards and Trae Young (and his teammate Darius Garland) in that area. Yet having an offensive star who is also a generational defender unlocks roster building in a special way; just look at players like Giannis Antetokounmpo, LeBron James and Tim Duncan.

Evan Mobley isn’t those players, but it’s at least possible that he could be. That places him high on this list and at the top of reasons Cavs fans should be excited about this season and beyond.