No Deal Between Isaac Okoro, Cavs As Extension Deadline Passes

The Cleveland Cavaliers and Isaac Okoro did not agree to rookie contract extension by the NBA's deadline, meaning he'll be a restricted free agent in 2024.

League sources confirmed that the Cleveland Cavaliers and Isaac Okoro did not come to terms on a rookie contract extension by the Oct. 23 deadline at 6 p.m., meaning that Okoro will enter restricted free agency in the 2024 NBA offseason.

With Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell playing on their rookie max extensions, Evan Mobley next in line for a significant pay raise as soon as next fall and plenty of money invested in Jarrett Allen, Caris LeVert and newcomer Max Strus, Cleveland was somewhat cornered in what it could offer and the value Okoro’s representation may be seeking.

This could end up working out in both parties’ favor, as typically contract years turn into prove-it time for young players looking to spruce up their resume before the summer. The 2020 fifth overall pick is entering his fourth season with the Cavs and will look to play a big part for the team's improved second unit.

J.B. Bickerstaff is plenty confident in the way he attacks from the corner and uses angles to draw defenders to make the next right pass. In transition, Okoro is a blur and runs with the best of them as well. He’s also gotten incrementally better as a three-point shooter over the course of his career.

Oct 12, 2023; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward Isaac Okoro (35) drives to the basket against Orlando Magic center Moritz Wagner (21) during the second half at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse / Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

This preseason, we saw how the 22-year-old can impact the game within the faster-paced environment Cleveland is moving toward. His defensive reputation is well-known, but what he does on the offensive side of the ball and how consistent he is on the floor will likely determine whether or not the Cavs choose to bring him back next offseason.

Last year, Okoro averaged 6.4 points, 2.5 rebounds and 1.1 assists per game on .494/.363/.757 shooting splits.