How Can Cleveland Take The Next Leap?

Bench Production

When it mattered the most, Cleveland’s bench struggled to give a lift.

Of all the bench players who were regular parts of the Cavs’ rotation, only one player shot over 37% from the field. That player was Isaac Okoro, who only averaged 16.6 minutes and 3 shot attempts per game.

When you look at Indiana’s Game 4, Bennedict Mathurin found a way to chip in 20 points in 12 and a half minutes.

Sam Merrill and Ty Jerome, both players whose scoring efficiency dropped in the playoffs, are free agents this summer. Altman has expressed interest in bringing them back.

Jerome, in particular, should find himself a healthy deal to avenge his second-round performance. His regular-season performance was a critical component of the Cavs’ success.

Altman and the Cavs may look elsewhere to replace Merrill. He had a good season as a 3&D wing, but at 6-foot-4, Cleveland might be best suited to look elsewhere to find a better fit for the team.

Some free agent names that make sense for this teams current construction include Guerschon Yabusele, Jake LaRavia, Dante Exum and a reunion with Caris LeVert.

Whatever ends up happening, the Cavaliers must find a way to get some lift from their reserves when the starters aren’t in rhythm.

The Bottom Line

This team is closer to contention than most of the league. As Altman spoke about in his end-of-season press conference, it’s about tweaking just a few areas to use continuity to their advantage.

Health is wealth, and the Cavs found themselves fairly unwealthy in the most important moments. If Mobley doesn’t twist his ankle, if Garland doesn’t injure his toe, then the outcome could have looked much different.

Cleveland has to be prepared to overcome the challenges presented to them from the Pacers series. Navigating extreme ball pressure and finding a balanced offensive attack were obstacles that stumped the team.

With Atkinson reportedly making the film room a “second home”, that could be the difference Cleveland needs to find themselves back in the conference finals.