Cleveland Cavaliers: Draft Needs and Prospect Watchlist

Highlighting the draft needs of the Cavaliers, as well as plausible selections in their projected range, and how they’d fit in.

In Donovan Mitchell’s first season repping the Cavs threads, the franchise made its first playoff appearance since the Lebron James era. They won 51 games and secured a first-round matchup against the fifth-seed New York Knicks. They recently lost this battle in five games, but this season was surely still a success.

For one, the front office can confidently say they’ve acquired their franchise superstar. Mitchell’s sixth season was his best yet, averaging over 28 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists en route to flirting with MVP conversations. Additionally, Darius Garland built off of his all-star campaign from a year ago with another great season. Moreover, sophomore big man Evan Mobley took a big leap heading into year two, finishing as a finalist for the Defensive Player Of The Year award. Despite a disappointing postseason performance, Jarrett Allen remains one of the better centers in the NBA.

However, outside of these four etched-in starters, Cleveland’s roster has a lot of work needed to step into contention. Above all, they need to find better options on the wing. They have two stellar guards and two great big men, but they lack a great wing to fill that fifth spot in lineups. Caris Levert, Isaac Okoro, Cedi Osman, and Dean Wade are all solid options, but the Cavs will need to look for an upgrade to truly chase a title. 

This wing needs to be able to space the floor in two-big lineups, score in cramped situations, and guard the opposing teams’ best perimeter weapon. It won’t be easy to do with their second round pick, but there are certainly some names Koby Altman can target this June to alleviate the roster’s concerns. Also, trading up is always an option.

Projected Pick (Per Tankathon): 49

Team Needs: Wing Shooting, Wing Defense, Off-The-Catch Slashing, Stretch Big

Here are some reasonable prospects Cleveland fans should keep their eye on as potential targets come June, and how they’d fit in:

Julian Strawther, Gonzaga

Many believe Strawther is one of the most slept-on prospects in the 2023 Draft class, and it’s not hard to see why. For one, the Gonzaga product is a fantastic shooter, converting over 40% of his looks. He’s also a good scorer inside the arc. If he can bring enough on defense and as a decision-maker, he could end up being the solution to the Cavs’ problems.

Terrence Shannon Jr.

On multiple occasions I’ve stated that I believe Shannon Jr. is the most underrated player in this year’s cycle. I view him as close to a lottery-level prospect, but he’s most commonly projected as a second-rounder. His off-the-catch slashing would do wonders for Cleveland to unlock the cramped interior of their double-big lineup. However, in this situation his three-point shot would be more vital than ever.

Jalen Slawson, Furman

Slawson is a really well-balanced forward. He can shoot, attack the rim, pass, and defend his position. The 6-foot-7 24-year-old clearly has upside as a self-creator as well due to his slashing ability. The Furman product could definitely be a valuable add to Cleveland’s roster.

Other potential targets:

Sidy Cissoko, G League Ignite

Kris Murray, Iowa

Kobe Brown, Missouri

Jordan Walsh, Arkansas

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