In a significant move to solidify their young core, the Cleveland Cavaliers have secured a three-year, $38 million deal with Isaac Okoro, the last remaining restricted free agent on the market. This agreement underscores the Cavaliers' commitment to building a competitive squad around their promising young talent.
Isaac Okoro, the fifth overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, has spent his entire career with the Cavaliers. His trajectory with the team has been marked by a steady improvement and increased responsibility on the court. Last season, Okoro averaged 9.4 points, three rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game, and notably shot a career-high 39.1% on 3.1 three-point attempts per game during the 2023-24 season. Okoro's prowess as a reliable starter was evident as he started in 42 games last season.
The Cavaliers' front office has been busy this offseason, securing pivotal extensions to ensure stability and growth. These include a three-year, $150 million extension with star guard Donovan Mitchell, a five-year, $224 million extension with promising forward Evan Mobley, and a three-year, $91 million extension with towering center Jarrett Allen. Collectively, these moves demonstrate the organization's faith in their current roster and their vision for the future.
Last season was a transformative one for the Cavaliers. They were eliminated in the second round of the playoffs by the Boston Celtics, yet the postseason appearance was notable as it marked the team's first since LeBron James' second departure from Cleveland. Additionally, the Cavaliers won a playoff series without James for the first time since 1993 – a significant milestone indicating the team's potential to succeed without relying on one of the game's greatest players.
Amidst these achievements, the Cavaliers' playoff exit led to significant changes within the coaching staff. Head coach JB Bickerstaff was dismissed after the postseason run, and in June, the Cavaliers appointed Kenny Atkinson as the new head coach. Atkinson is widely recognized for his developmental acumen and strategic approach, making him an ideal candidate to guide this young Cavaliers team.
The Cavaliers' strategy seems evident: they are doubling down on their young talent, providing them with both the resources and the leadership needed to develop into a perennial contender. Okoro's extension is a key component of this strategy. His defensive capabilities, combined with his improving offensive skills, make him a valuable asset on both ends of the floor.
This offseason's major signings and the shift to a new head coach signal that the Cavaliers are not content with a mere playoff appearance. The organization has set its sights on deeper runs and perhaps even championship contention in the near future. With a blend of seasoned veterans and promising youngsters, the Cavaliers are poised to emerge as a formidable team in the Eastern Conference. The pieces are in place, and the franchise’s proactive moves this offseason are clear indicators of their aspirations.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on how Okoro and his teammates gel under Atkinson's leadership. If they can harness their collective potential, the Cavaliers could very well become the team to watch in the coming years. For now, fans in Cleveland have every reason to be optimistic about the direction in which their team is headed.