The Cleveland Cavaliers didn’t have a first-round pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
With little money to spend on free agents, reinforcements have to come from within.
That’s why fans must be glad to hear that Nae’Qwan Tomlin could turn some heads during Summer League play.
As pointed out by draft expert Matt Powers on X, Tomlin will have an opportunity to showcase his improvement.
A Summer League thing I’m keeping an eye on for each team:
ATL – Newell as PNR roll finisher
BOS – Amari usage as conductor
BKN – How does that many ballhandlers work
CHA – Kon PU3 willingness
CHI – Noa’s FTR translation
CLE – Tomlin’s continued growth
DAL – Coop’s rim finishing— Matt Powers (@DraftPow) July 9, 2025
Tomlin was a force to be reckoned with in the G-League last season.
He earned a call-up to the Cavs, and though he didn’t get a lot of playing time, he made a strong impression to get a spot on the roster.
He’s physical, pesky and plays with a chip on his shoulder.
The Cavs emphasized adding toughness to their game, and Tomlin is as tough as they come.
He has made strides as a shooter as well, and his ability to convert from 3-point range could be crucial to get him on the floor in head coach Kenny Atkinson’s pace-and-space offensive system.
Jaylon Tyson, a first-round pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, showed glimpses of his potential in limited playing time as a rookie and also will most likely be given more responsibility.
The Cavs’ end to the season raised questions about the team’s mental grit, and they now need to reward not only the most talented players but also those who seem to want it the most.
NEXT: NBA Insider Says Cavs Would Sign LeBron James Under 1 Condition
