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3 big changes Cleveland Cavaliers will likely make if this season falls short

By Caleb Crowley

Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers. Photo By Winslow Townson/Getty Images
Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers. Photo By Winslow Townson/Getty Images /
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CLEVELAND, OHIO – JANUARY 22: Jarrett Allen #31 celebrates with Isaac Okoro #35 of the Cleveland Cavaliers during the first half at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on January 22, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OHIO – JANUARY 22: Jarrett Allen #31 celebrates with Isaac Okoro #35 of the Cleveland Cavaliers during the first half at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on January 22, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /

A failed season could lead to major trades in Cleveland

Although Jarrett Allen’s arrival in Cleveland was one of the first major steps toward contention, his lackluster production in the playoffs has caused his name to circulate in trade rumors all summer. Additionally, with the Cavs likely viewing Evan Mobley as a long-term center rather than a power forward, Allen’s fit in Cleveland could become troublesome. If Allen cannot make a major impact in the postseason this year, his tenure on the Cavaliers might be over sooner than expected.

Another Cavalier with a complex relationship on the team is 2020 first-round pick Isaac Okoro. Okoro was selected in the middle of Cleveland’s rebuild. He was chosen as a rough prospect, and the Cavs hoped to develop his skillset as a 3-and-D wing over time. Unfortunately for Okoro, the Cavaliers’ sudden shift into contention has left Okoro’s development wanting.

Both players are indisputably fantastic players on a strong team, but their fit in Cleveland could become unresolved next summer in the wake of another failed season. Okoro’s rookie extension will be a major point of contention this season, adding another layer of dramatics to his situation. Trading Okoro after the season without a preexisting extension would be a frantic situation for the Cavs.

As for Jarrett Allen, his team-friendly $20 million salary and his All-Star-caliber talent makes the traditional center a monumental trade piece if the Cavaliers feel the need to make the move. It is possible that Cleveland would package Allen alongside Okoro to alleviate the extension complications and acquire a higher-salaried player.

The past two summers have shown that the Cleveland Cavaliers are not afraid of offseason moves, small and large. Chris Fedor suggested that a first-round exit (barring an uncontrollable and unfortunate circumstance) would be the turning point for Cleveland.

Finally, the Cavaliers may look to change their extension plans and hold off what may end up inevitable after a second failed postseason.

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