Pre-Draft Outlook
A single pick at the end of the first round looks a lot different for a team coming off a trip to the East finals than for one that might have stalled out for the second consecutive spring. That’s how much it meant for the Cavaliers to beat Detroit in Game 7 and advance, landing Donovan Mitchell and the rest in a clash with New York for conference superiority. Cleveland’s title window remains open, which takes some focus off draft options for a high-payroll team more active in the trade market or free agency.
The Way to Go
The same scouting and draft acumen that landed Tyrese Proctor last year with the No. 49 pick will be tasked with doing even better 20 spots higher this time. Given the Cavs’ fleet of guards, most of the projections at No. 29 are looking at wings and project big men. Arkansas’ Meleek Thomas is a skilled scorer in need of defensive improvement, while Texas wing Dailyn Swain is a scorer still in search of jump-shot consistency. One of the mocks floated Italian center Luigi Suigo, whose decision to join the league next season could swing on getting picked on later than No. 30.
— Steve Aschburner
Under Contract
G: James Harden
G: Sam Merrill
G: Donovan Mitchell
G: Craig Porter Jr.
G: Tyrese Proctor
G: Dennis Schröder
G/F: Max Strus
G/F: Jaylon Tyson
F: Nae’Qwan Tomlin
C: Jarrett Allen
C: Evan Mobley
Free agents
G: Keon Ellis
F/C: Larry Nance Jr.
F/C: Dean Wade
C/F: Thomas Bryant