The Cleveland Cavaliers have cemented their commitment to building a competitive and youthful core, agreeing to a three-year, $38 million deal with forward Isaac Okoro. As the last remaining restricted free agent on the market, Okoro’s signing signals the Cavaliers' unwavering focus on nurturing their young talents to form a formidable squad for the future.
Since being drafted as the No. 5 overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, Okoro has spent his entire career with the Cavaliers. Last season, he averaged 9.4 points, three rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game, showcasing his developing prowess on the court. Okoro also set a career-high by shooting 39.1% from beyond the arc on 3.1 three-point attempts per game during the 2023-24 season. His improvement from deep adds a critical dimension to his game and makes him an essential asset for Cleveland moving forward.
The Cavaliers' front office has been busy this offseason, ensuring that their core players remain locked in for the long term. Alongside Okoro, the team agreed to significant extensions with key players Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen. Mitchell, who joined the Cavaliers last year, secured a three-year, $150 million extension, while Mobley committed to a five-year, $224 million deal. Allen, a defensive anchor for the team, agreed to a three-year, $91 million extension.
These moves reflect the Cavaliers’ strategy to build a robust core around their young talent, hoping to make more substantial strides in the playoffs. Last season, the Cavaliers clinched their first postseason appearance since LeBron James' second departure and managed to advance past the first round without the legendary forward for the first time since 1993. However, their playoff journey was cut short in the second round by the Boston Celtics.
The playoff exit prompted organizational changes, including the decision to part ways with head coach JB Bickerstaff. In June, the Cavaliers appointed Kenny Atkinson as the new head coach. Atkinson, known for his developmental expertise and strategic approach, is expected to harness the potential of the Cavaliers’ promising roster. His ability to develop young players and implement strategic game plans will be crucial as the Cavaliers aim to build on the progress from last season.
As the Cavaliers prepare for the upcoming season, the focus will be on integrating their extended core and leveraging the potential of their young stars. With Okoro's continued development, Mitchell's veteran presence, Mobley's burgeoning talent, and Allen's defensive stalwart role, Cleveland has put together a squad that looks poised to make significant noise in the Eastern Conference.
Ultimately, this offseason has been a testament to the Cavaliers’ commitment to fostering a competitive environment centered around their youthful and talented core. The forthcoming season will reveal how well these pieces fit together and whether this blend of youth and experience can propel Cleveland further into the playoffs. With the latest signings and extensions, Cavaliers fans can look forward to an exciting and hopeful future.