3 potential closing lineups for the Cavs in 2022-23 season

Potential Cavs closing unit No. 1: The balanced lineup

For the first lineup, I think the Cavaliers could use what many think should be their primary starting five. A lineup of Darius Garland, Donovan Mitchell, Isaac Okoro, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen could present the defense with a plethora of problems on both sides of the court.

Of course, you have your mainstays like Garland, Mitchell, Mobley, and Allen, but Isaac Okoro brings an extra boost to the defensive output that becomes even more critical in the fourth quarter.

The Cavs often used Okoro in their closing lineups last season given his excellent perimeter defense and athleticism. He was able to offset some of the defensive challenges on the outside with Lauri Markkanen playing the three. I think Okoro can give opposing offenses fits while also giving Garland and Mitchell a chance to breathe before having to go back down the court to create the offense.

Having him out there gives Cleveland some versatility on the defensive end that they won’t have if they choose to space the floor with shooters. Yes, it would be nice if Okoro could find himself as a shooter, and he’s reportedly worked extensively in that area, but even if he doesn’t improve as much as we would like him to he could still be a valuable piece at the end of games.

Surrounding him with playmakers, shooters, and defensive-minded bigs is the best-case scenario. It allows him to focus and do what he does best, which is lock in on the opponent’s best player. That’s something every team needs to close out a fourth quarter.