Following back-to-back second-round playoff exits, the Cleveland Cavaliers are eager to rewrite their story with Evan Mobley at the center of their ambitions. At just 24 years old, Mobley’s growth as a versatile big man is viewed as critical to shaping the Cavs’ future on-court success and overall team trajectory.
Cavaliers President of Basketball Operations Koby Altman recently praised Mobley’s progress during the team’s Las Vegas Summer League game against the Milwaukee Bucks. Reflecting on Mobley’s standout season, Altman said,
If Evan, at 24 years old, [was] Defensive Player of the Year, Second Team All-NBA, career highs across the board [in] points per game, rebounds per game and three-pointers, we’d all be doing back flips,
—Koby Altman, President of Basketball Operations. He acknowledged the sting of repeated playoff disappointments but emphasized their role in the team’s development, adding,
We have to go through these trials and tribulations. They hurt. They sting. We wake up every day thinking about those second-round losses the last two years. But it’s part of our story. It’ll make us stronger.
—Koby Altman, President of Basketball Operations.
Expanding Mobley’s Role to Include Point Forward Duties
As the Cavaliers prepare for the upcoming season without Darius Garland at the outset, the team plans to adjust its offensive approach. Mobley is expected to assume expanded responsibilities, serving as a point forward rather than a traditional point guard, a role that requires him to facilitate plays and guide the offense. Altman explained this strategic shift during the broadcast:
We’ve talked about Evan a lot, and he’s not going to play point, but he’s going to play some point forward for us.
—Koby Altman, President of Basketball Operations.
Mobley’s basketball intelligence and natural playmaking abilities have been apparent throughout his career. Last season, he matched a career-high average of 3.2 assists per game, signaling his potential to orchestrate the offense more effectively. Head coach Kenny Atkinson has aimed to further develop these qualities, positioning Mobley as a key facilitator who can unlock new offensive dimensions for the Cavaliers.
Looking Ahead: Mobley’s Influence on the Cavaliers’ Championship Aspirations
With Mobley’s evolving skill set at the core, Cleveland has the opportunity to reshape its identity and maximize its talent. His ability to blend offensive creativity with defensive impact stands as a crucial factor in the team’s hopes for a deeper playoff run. The Cavaliers are focused not just on recovering from past setbacks but on establishing themselves as a powerful NBA contender with Mobley leading the effort.
Evan Mobley Cleveland Cavaliers future depends on how effectively he embraces this expanded role and continues to grow both offensively and defensively. His progression will likely dictate the trajectory of the franchise in the seasons to come, making him a central figure in Cleveland’s quest for NBA prominence.