The Cleveland Cavaliers made a bold move by drafting Evan Mobley from USC in the first round of the 2021 NBA draft, setting high expectations for the 6-foot-11 big man. Mobley, known for his elite rim protection skills, has been steadily improving his offensive game each year. Grant Hughes of Bleacher Report even predicts that Mobley could make his first All-Star appearance in his fourth season in the league.
Despite battling a knee injury last season, Mobley had a standout year, averaging 15.7 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 2.3 steals/blocks per game in just 50 appearances. His three-point shooting also saw improvement, with a 37.7% success rate from beyond the arc. While he was not eligible for the All-Defensive Team last season due to missing games, Mobley is set to make a strong case for a spot in the upcoming year if he can stay healthy and continue to showcase his defensive prowess while also evolving offensively.
With teammates like Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland taking on primary scoring roles, Mobley doesn’t have to carry the offensive load for the Cavs. However, new head coach Kenny Atkinson is expected to implement a fast-paced system that could unlock new dimensions of Mobley’s game. Rather than just increasing his scoring output, Mobley will look to elevate his overall offensive impact, potentially setting career-highs in assists and points.
While concerns about his knee injury linger, Mobley has only missed a total of 16 games in his first two seasons. The young star’s performance during the Cavs’ playoff run last season, including a 33-point game against the Boston Celtics, showcased his potential to be a game-changer. His unique combination of size, length, speed, and skill set him apart as a rare talent in today’s league.
With a massive contract extension signed this summer, the Cavs have shown their faith in Mobley’s potential. As he continues to develop under a new coaching staff, the stage is set for Mobley to solidify himself as a cornerstone player for Cleveland. If he can continue on his current trajectory, an All-Star selection in 2025 seems like a very realistic possibility for the promising young talent.
