The Cleveland Cavaliers exceeded expectations last season and are looking to build off their success. They have done a terrific job adding young talent and developing them at a rapid rate in recent years. Cleveland’s current core has a bright future and the franchise continues to look to improve it. The Cavs made four additions in this year’s draft that they hope will fit into their long-term vision. It all starts with the 2022 NBA Las Vegas Summer League.
It is worth noting that 39th overall pick Khalifa Diop will not be participating in the Summer League. The draft-and-stash product has returned to Europe where he has several options for where to play next season. Diop is much more of a long-term project piece and will benefit from refining his skills overseas.
Regardless, there are still several notable players worth tuning in for as the youthful Cavs roster heads to Las Vegas.
3 major reasons Cavs fans should be hyped for 2022 NBA Las Vegas Summer League
3. Ochai Agbaji
Despite being one of the most decorated college players within the draft class, there was an underwhelming lack of buzz surrounding Ochai Agbaji. The Consensus All-American and NCAA Final Four Most Oustanding Player has few holes in his overall game. The 6-foot-5 guard led the Big 12 in scoring last year by pouring in 18.8 points per game. He is an effective shooter and also connected on 40.7 percent of his three-point attempts last season.
At the minimum, Agbaji projects as a solid 3-and-D prospect. However, it is very possible there is more he will be capable of doing at the NBA level. The Cavs clearly think highly of him as they selected him with the 14th overall pick in the draft. The 22-year-old will get his first chance to show what he can do in the summer league environment. He served as the focal point of the Kansas offense and is likely to play a similar role in the summer league. Look for Agbaji to make his presence felt in each matchup and prove why he is ready to be a rotational piece moving forward.
2. Aaron Henry
Another guy who projects well as a three-and-D prospect is Aaron Henry. The former Michigan State standout went undrafted last year and spent most of the season with the Sixers G League affiliate. Henry initially agreed to a two-way contract with the team but was bumped down to a full-time G League deal after Charlie Brown Jr. made a strong impact with the Philadelphia 76ixers. This should not be a mark against Aaron Henry as there is still a great deal to like about his game.
The 6-foot-5 wing can do a little bit of everything. He spent some time initiating the offense last season with the Delaware Blue Coats and is also a high-level rebounder. Henry is a solid athlete and moves fluidly on the court. Look for him to show signs of putting the pieces together and growing into an NBA-level talent. The Summer League opportunity is a trial with the Cavs but do not be surprised if Henry plays himself into a roster spot.
1. Isaiah Mobley
The Cavaliers have been thrilled with everything that Evan Mobley has brought to the team after selecting him with the third overall pick last season. Just one year later they elected to select his former college teammate and brother Isaiah Mobley to join the organization. While his potential is significantly lower than his brothers’, there is still a great deal to like about Isaiah Mobley. He stands at 6-foot-10 and is more of a scorer than his brother Evan. The point forward has an intriguing ability to take a rebound coast-to-coast and is comfortable stepping outside to shoot three-pointers.
The USC product showed progress throughout his three years in college. This past season he averaged 14.2 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists. He plays well in pick-and-pop and pick-and-roll situations. Mobley may lack some eye-popping athleticism but has some intriguing tools he uses well. The summer league will be a great chance for him to prove himself and show why he was trusted with a two-way contract following the draft.
There are a few other notable names to watch on the Cavs summer league roster as well. Ashton Hagans showed some real flashes at Kentucky before going undrafted in the 2020 draft. Hagans has battled some injuries and other hurdles so far in his career and needs to have a productive summer league. Look for him to play with a high level of energy in hopes of latching onto an NBA roster. 58th overall pick Luke Travers will also be participating. The Australia product stands 6-foot-7 and has an intriguing guard-like skillset. Expect him to open some eyes with his unique look and style of play as well.
