5 Cavaliers players who will be much better next season

The Cleveland Cavaliers had a disappointing end to their season, with a number of players they were counting on putting up poor performances in the playoffs. Despite their regular season success, the Cavs were clearly not ready to be a force in the postseason and lost in five games to the New York Knicks.

That’s fine – teams with little or no playoff experience almost always struggle that first time. Now the focus is on next year, and how to be more successful when the playoffs roll around. Some of the improvement they seek will come from upgrading the roster, but some will come simply from the players already wearing the wine and gold.

These five players will be better next season than they were this time around.

Danny Green will be much better next season

The Cavaliers took a chance on Danny Green on the buyout market, and while circumstances and illness limited his time with the team prior to the playoffs, he was one of the players head coach J.B. Bickerstaff tried out, and Green certainly had some good moments.

What’s mentioned but often not properly weighed is the fact that Green was playing prior to the one-year anniversary of his ACL tear. For any player, but especially one at his age, the road back from a major knee injury is a long one. It’s impressive that Green was able to play, but he should be even better with another 6 months off to heal.

Green is a free agent, so he may not be back with the Cavs next season. If he does return, however, his 3-point shot and defensive savvy will be much appreciated, and his championship experience will be welcomed in the locker room. A fully healthy Danny Green could be a dangerous weapon for the Cavs.