Cavs Opinion: Caris LeVert Making Early Case For 6th Man Of The Year
A team having a strong starting five is obviously important for them to have overall success. But never discredit the impact a solid bench can have too.
The Cleveland Cavaliers' reserves have done a great holding down the fort and at the center of that has been Caris LeVert. His effect has been so significant that there's already a strong case for him to be at the front of the 6th Man of the Year conversation.
LeVert has appeared in 12 games for the Cavs and started just one of them. He's come off the bench in the other 11 providing the spark that the second unit needs to stay in the game.
LeVert is averaging 16.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.4 assists while shooting 42% from the field and 31% from behind the arc. That's production that most teams desire from their starters and getting it off the bench is a huge premium for the Cavs.
Nov 15, 2023; Portland, Oregon, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Caris LeVert (3) scores a layup during the second half against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports
© Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports
His 16.3 PPG when coming off the bench is second in the NBA and only trails the Dallas Mavericks' Tim Hardaway Jr. who's averaging 17.5 PPG.
The Cavs used LeVert as both a starter and reserve last season and Caris admitted before the season started that he was hoping to find a little more rhythm in his role.
This was the same objective coming into the season for J.B. Bickerstaff as he looked to stabilize a position for LeVert. So far, that's been the case and it's working beautifully for LeVert individual play and the team's overall success.
Yes, it's early in the season, but it'll be hard to keep LeVert's name out of the 6th Man of the Year conversation if this continues throughout the entire season. He hasn't been shy about wanting to take home this award either. When asked about whether 6th Man of the Year was a goal for him, LeVert said:
"Of course, I want to win it."
