3 Cavs that earned untouchable status, 4 that should be cut loose

One of four Cavs who should be cut loose: Isaac Okoro

Isaac Okoro is a quality defensive player in this league. He’s firmly established himself as such in the last two seasons for the Wine and Gold, and there plenty of positive signs from him in that aspect of the game as a rookie in 2020-21.

This isn’t suggesting Cleveland should be running Okoro out of town at the first opportunity, and there could be unlocked offensive potential for the Auburn product.

But, for the Cavs at this stage, as they aim to solidify themselves as Eastern Conference contenders, Cleveland shouldn’t be hesitant to potentially involve Okoro in trade discussions, especially with more offensively-polished wings in mind there.

Okoro did show growth signs offensively this season and in Year 2 as a catch-and-shoot/off-ball player, and in the 2023 portion of the regular season, he hit 44.1 percent of his three-point shot attempts.

Part of the problem is, though, Okoro attempted only 2.6 deep looks in that span, and while he can make some plays as a driver when attacking closeouts, he’s a ways from being a floor spacing and consistent offensive presence for Cleveland. One could see that in the regular season still, and in the playoffs versus New York.

With that being the reality, and Cleveland having others such as Lamar Stevens, Dean Wade and one could still foresee Caris LeVert to help defensively, and perhaps a couple of other external additions, it could be sensible for Cleveland to shop Okoro this offseason.

With him still having glaring offensive limitations, even with him only 22, it’s tough to say currently for it to be wise to eventually sign him long term, let alone extend Okoro this offseason.