Examining Isaac Okoro’s play so far
One thing that can never be questioned about Isaac Okoro is his defensive ability. He is without a doubt the best perimeter defender on the roster, leading all Cavs forwards in deflections per game with 1.3. However, the one weakness Okoro has is shooting and to start out the season, it was rough.
He was coming off the bench due to his limited offensive game and Bickerstaff thought the team would have more firepower with LeVert in the lineup along with Mitchell and Garland. Okoro did next to nothing to change that. From October-December he shot a horrendous 19% from three, including an 0-of-12 start to the season. It was essentially four on five on the offensive end of the floor because teams had no fear of Okoro.
Since Jan. 1, though, Okoro has flipped the switch completely. He has shot 46% from three and 47% on catch-and-shoot threes. He has been playing like the three-and-D forward the Cavs have desperately needed all season since the new year and it is vital that Okoro keeps this up in the postseason. The Cavaliers are going to need him in crunch time because of his defensive value. Now his offense needs to keep pace.