Going into his third year with the Cleveland Cavaliers, former USC Trojan Evan Mobley will be a leader for Cleveland’s offense. The young big man has shown glimpses of great court vision and a willingness to pass. With the improved shooting the Cavaliers signed this offseason, running Mobley as the offensive hub in a 1-in 4-out gameplan may become a common sighting for the Cleveland faithful.
Georges Niang and Dean Wade will probably see most of their minutes as the four spot, serving as floor spacers with Mobley at the center of the offense.
President of Basketball Operations Koby Altman also expressed a desire to slot Mobley into the center role more often this coming season, leaving a lingering question of Jarrett Allen‘s role on the team.
Could the Cavaliers trade Jarrett Allen?
Last season, Allen was a primary source of Cleveland’s league-leading defense. His presence inside deterred many opponents’ drives. Averaging 1.2 blocks and 9.8 rebounds in the 2022-23 season, the Fro’s dominance on defense earned him respect across the league.
The duo of Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen has risen Cleveland’s identity as a defense first team to new heights, led by head coach J.B. Bickerstaff, a man who has proven himself as a great defensive coach.
Although Allen has helped guide the Cavaliers to their current status, Mobley’s progression and the lack of floor spacing between the two bigs has continually raised concerns about their long term fit next to one another. While Altman has repeatedly stated he has no plans to trade Allen this offseason, the results of Mobley at the five may change his perspective.
Mobley will need time to transition to the five, so Allen’s departure from Cleveland will not happen until close to the trade deadline. This gives the Cavaliers an opportunity to trade for players originally unavailable due to having been recently traded or signed this offseason.
These three trade proposals would bring the Cavaliers an ideal fit at four next to Evan Mobley if he’s ready to serve as the full-time five this season.