Much of the stories surrounding the Cleveland Cavaliers’ offseason have focused on Collin Sexton’s extension, Kevin Love’s future, and Evan Mobley’s promise. Amid all these topics, one crucial part of the Cavs’ future has become an afterthought.
In four preseason games, Isaac Okoro appears to have taken a backseat to the Cavs’ new players. It’s something that has caught the attention of head coach JB Bickerstaff, but he’s bent on giving the 6-foot-5 youngster the nurturing he deserves.
“Isaac’s job is extremely difficult playing that 3 spot and still being who he naturally is and has been.” Bickerstaff told Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com. “Growing up, college, he’s been a guy with the ball in his hands, and been able to handle, decision-make, play-make, and all those things.”
“You ask a guy to go out every single night to guard the other team’s best player, you have to do your part on the offensive end to help him feel involved.”
Isaac Okoro had a bigger share of the attention last season. The Cavs forward was named to the 2020-21 NBA All-Rookie Second Team, giving the team another talented piece of its young core.
The Auburn product showed serious improvement on the offensive end towards the end of his rookie season. Throughout nine games in May, Okoro averaged 16.6 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.0 assists.
The Cavs set a goal for Okoro to work on his shooting and playmaking this offseason, but the results have yet to be seen. Ice, as he’s fondly called, is a workhorse, so it’s safe to expect him to make heads turn in the regular season.