On July 8th, the Cleveland Cavaliers announced a three-year max contract extension with Donovan Mitchell. Today, the Cavs are reportedly set to offer another max contract, this time to Evan Mobley. Handing out two max contracts in just half a month clearly shows the Cavs' confidence in their current roster. Despite finishing fourth in the Eastern Conference for two consecutive seasons and exiting in the second round this year, they only lost to the eventual champions, making it almost as good as finishing second.
Roster Stability and Potential Gems
The Cavs have not made any significant moves in free agency but did draft Jalen Tyson with the 20th pick and signed him to a four-year rookie contract. Tyson has already shown promise in the Summer League, with impressive performances, including a near triple-double against the Lakers.
While the Cavs have been quiet on the trade market, their focus has been on securing their current roster by extending key players. According to Woj, the Cavs are preparing a five-year contract for Mobley, worth at least $224 million, with potential increases if he makes All-NBA teams, wins MVP, or DPOY.
Is Mobley Worth a Max Contract?
Mobley averaged 15.7 points, 9.4 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 1.4 blocks per game last season. His shooting improved to 58% from the field and 37.3% from three, albeit with limited attempts. In the playoffs, he maintained solid performance, averaging 16 points, 9.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 2.2 blocks per game, with a standout 33-point game.
The Cavs' Strategy
Despite the criticism and questions about fit, the Cavs have locked down their core players. Allen, Garland, Mitchell, and now potentially Mobley, all on long-term deals. This stability is seen as key to their strategy moving forward.
Garland signed a max extension last year, and despite rumors of potential trades, he remains committed to the team. His support for Mitchell’s contract further dispels trade speculation.
Future Challenges
The Cavs will face financial pressure in the 2025-26 season with three max contracts on the books. If they don't achieve significant success by then, the investment may seem overestimated.
Coaching Change
The Cavs replaced head coach J.B. Bickerstaff with Kenny Atkinson. While Bickerstaff showed promise during the regular season, his playoff performance raised concerns. Atkinson, known for his development work, especially with former Nets players Jarrett Allen and Caris LeVert, brings new hope.
The Future
As 2021 draft peers like Cunningham, Barnes, and Mobley secure max deals, the spotlight turns to Jalen Green. Questions remain if his lack of a max contract is due to oversight by the Rockets, his performance, or developmental issues.
Will the Cavs' bold moves pay off, or will they face financial strain without the desired success? Only time will tell.
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