The Cleveland Cavaliers are turning to guard Lonzo Ball in hopes of correcting the issues that ended last season’s playoff run in the Eastern Conference semifinals.
Cleveland’s 2023-24 campaign unraveled in a five-game defeat to the Indiana Pacers. The slide began in Game 2, when Tyrese Haliburton hit a late three-pointer over Ty Jerome. From that moment, Indiana’s backcourt of Haliburton and Andrew Nembhard took control, averaging 31.6 points and 14.2 assists for the series.
The Cavaliers’ offense stalled at the same time. After producing 28.1 assists per game during the regular season, they managed only 20.6 against Indiana. Jerome, coming off a career year, struggled, while Darius Garland battled injuries and later underwent toe surgery.
Seeking answers, Cleveland traded Isaac Okoro for Ball, who brings size and versatility to the guard rotation. According to data cited by Sports Illustrated’s Robert Watson III, Ball ranks in the 86th percentile defensively and above the 94th percentile in playmaking and teamwork.
The 6-foot-6 guard is expected to ease the burden on Donovan Mitchell and Garland, while giving coach J.B. Bickerstaff a defender capable of matching up with elite playmakers such as Haliburton or Cade Cunningham.
Durability remains the major concern. Ball has logged more than 60 games just once since entering the NBA in 2017 and missed the last two seasons with injuries. If healthy, the Cavaliers believe his defensive instincts and quick decision-making can push the franchise beyond the second round for the first time since the LeBron James era.
Source: Hoops Wire
