Stocks soaring for 2 Cavs, while 1 is fading fast to begin 2022-23

Cavs Stock Up: Dean Wade

Dean Wade is in his fourth season with the Cavs. That’s something that many fans of the team seem to forget. He recently signed a new, multi-year contract with the team this offseason. The former Kansas State Wildcat hangs his hat on his excellent defense and now his offensive skill set is growing and he’s earning more time on the court.

Wade has started many games over the past two seasons and this year, he again has stepped in when needed. He’s started four games so far and done a nice job in the role. He had a career game last Sunday in that win over the Knicks when he scored 22 points, and knocked in six three-point shots. He’s averaging nearly 25 minutes a game and has just under a 9-point scoring average this season which are all career bests as well.

Wade’s defense continues to be his bread and butter and likely why Cavs head coach J.B. Bickerstaff is playing him more. Wade often times gets pitted against the opponent’s best player.

In the Cavaliers’ big win against the Boston Celtics on Wednesday he guarded Celtic Jaylen Brown on his closing shot and Wade’s defense helped alter the Celtic stars’ jumper just enough.