3. Solving the backup PG spot
When Ricky Rubio announced that he would be taking time away from basketball to focus on his mental health, it immediately sent the Cleveland Cavaliers' backup point guard spot into flux. Free agent signing Ty Jerome was supposed to be the answer, but he has been battling an ankle sprain and has only played in two games this season.
Enter Craig Porter Jr.
Porter might not wow you with his skillset, but he knows how to play the game of basketball. His IQ is incredible for a rookie, and he is so good at getting to his spot.
In his last four games, Porter has scored at least 10 points in all of them, including a career-high 21 points against the Nuggets this past Sunday. Porter is also a stout defender, and seems to be in the right place at all times. He is so good defensively that he can play in lineups alongside Garland, or Mitchell if need be. He is very versatile in that regard.
Porter has proven that he is the true backup PG for the Cavs for this season. He should not spend another second in the G-League, even as a player currently on a two-way contract. He belongs with the Wine and Gold. The Cavs have found their backup point guard.
As the Cavs head into the holiday season, their outlook looks a lot clearer than it did almost two weeks ago. Hopefully they keep it rolling once Mitchell comes back, and we shall see if they keep feasting even after Thanksgiving.