5 games that defined the Cleveland Cavaliers 2022-23 regular season

No. 4: Isaac Okoro’s first game winner

Admittedly, much of the questions surrounding the Cavs centers around having undersized wings who struggle to shoot consistently. This season, 2020 first-round pick Isaac Okoro started in 46 contests this season and averaged 7.8 points as a starter. When he started, Okoro shot 38.6% from deep.

Isaac “Ice” Okoro earned his nickname in Cleveland’s game in Brooklyn on March 23. With time winding down, Cleveland found themselves down by one. After Donovan Mitchell attempted to rebound a missed free throw for a tip-in twice but failed, the ball is swung out to Okoro on the corner with a wide open look at the basket. Shot goes up, and time froze (Ice does what Ice does). The shot goes in, and the Cavs bench erupts.

In his post-game interview, Okoro said “Once it left my hand, it was going in”. This newfound confidence from three and willingness to make the crucial play gave a new life to Okoro’s season. He had performed well all year but never had an opportunity to be THE clutch guy. Even if he is not the first option in the final minutes, Okoro proved he is nothing short of a true threat on offense and defense.