The Cleveland Cavaliers arguably are a better team now than they were last season.
That’s not something you hear every day when you talk about a team that had the second-best record in the NBA.
That’s why Grant Hughes of Bleacher Report gave the Cavs a B grade for their offseason so far.
“[Lonzo] Ball’s connective passing, reliable shooting and solid team defense are why he counts as an upgrade, even if the risk of him missing time is real. Cleveland also made the right financial call to let Ty Jerome walk. Last year’s breakout solidified the guard as a rotation-caliber NBA player, but the Cavs would have paid a mountain in luxury tax if they’d brought him back at market rates. Old pal Larry Nance Jr. is back on the minimum, while sniper Sam Merrill re-signed for just $38 million over three years. All told, the Cavs bring back a roster that looks roughly as good as the one that won 64 games last year, only with slightly more postseason viability,” Hughes wrote.
Granted, Ball is a major gamble because of his long history of injuries, but if he’s healthy in the playoffs, he’s going to provide a huge boost on defense.
Also, he’s a pure passer, whereas Jerome was more of a shooting guard.
Nance will provide some much-needed toughness in the frontcourt, and though he’s not the biggest guy out there, he can hold his own and play center if Jarrett Allen struggles with his postseason matchup.
Jaylon Tyson and Nae’Qwan Tomlin should be in for bigger roles in their second season, especially if Dean Wade is traded at some point.
Rookie guard Tyrese Proctor can make an immediate impact because of his shooting skills, particularly if head coach Kenny Atkinson continues to doubt Craig Porter Jr.
Of course, the team will only go as far as its stars can take it.
But depth also matters, and the Cavaliers look like a more well-rounded team after a very active offseason.
NEXT: Cavs Executive Reveals Honest Thoughts About Roster Additions
