There was one clear objective for the Cleveland Cavaliers heading into the 2023 offseason and that was improve their supporting cast. At first it did not seem like that the Cavs were going to do all that much after picking up Lamar Steven’s option and letting Cedi Osman’s contract become guaranteed. The good news is that was all just a precursor to what the front office actually had in store.
Additions
A big time trade which saw the Cavs land Max Strus in a sign-and-trade was the type of move that hits at multiple points. Strus is a clear upgrade at the small forward position while also getting rid of some of Cleveland’s roster clutter in Stevens and Osman. Turning those two into Strus is a big win for the Cavs.
Cleveland was not done yet as they added two more quality free agents in Georges Niang and Ty Jerome. Niang should be a clear candidate to see his fair share of minutes off the bench at the forward position. With a 40.1% conversion rate from deep last season, Niang should help provide some much needed space when he is on the floor.
Jerome comes over as an intriguing bench option at guard. Cleveland may be the place where Jerome sees a relatively consistent amount of minutes as that has fluctuated fairly frequently up to this point in his career. One way to become a difference maker for this Cavs team? Help out in the shots from deep department. Jerome made 38.9% of his threes last season which would have been the third-highest among relevant Cavs players in 2022-23.
One key free agent retained
Caris LeVert is still in a Cavs uniform as the two-sides agreed on a deal for him to stay in Cleveland. It does not seem like this move would be on the table without the bench shuffling made by the Strus trade. LeVert is someone who runs very hot and cold which can be exciting or excruciating to watch depending on the day. Maybe a clearer role and on-court grouping will help LeVert be a bit more consistent on a game-by-game basis. At worst LeVert helps in the continuity department which this team does need after jettisoning a few players.
Another move on the way?
There is still the possibility more moves could be coming for Cleveland as they are still not all the way closed on trading Jarrett Allen. Moving Allen could clear things up a bit more for this roster. It could also help make an addition to this roster which brings them up to the same level as true contenders. It may be a bit before things become a bit more clear in this situation and it may even take until the season starts with Allen still in the starting lineup for the Cavs.
