Cleveland Cavaliers big man Evan Mobley accomplished something no Cavs player has done since LeBron James 17 years ago. Mobley recorded five blocks in Wednesday’s win over the Chicago Bulls.
Mobley is the first Cavs rookie to accomplish that since James did it in March of 2004. He is also the first rookie to do that this season for any team.
Mobley made even more history Wednesday. He became just the 2nd rookie in franchise history to record 300+ points and 40+ blocks in his first 22 career games. Only John “Hot Rod” Williams also accomplished that feat for the Cavs.
The Cavs drafted Mobley 3rd overall in the 2021 NBA Draft out of the University of Southern California (USC). He made an immediate impact early on in his rookie season.
Alongside fellow big man Jarrett Allen, Cleveland has one of the best front courts in the NBA. Allen is also having an outstanding season, averaging over 17 points, 11 rebounds, a steal and a block per game. Those numbers have garnered All-Star attention.
Mobley is the front runner for Rookie of the Year honors this season. On Wednesday night, he filled up his stat line once again posting 16 points, nine boards, an assist, two steals and the five blocks.
Cleveland has been one of the biggest surprises in the NBA this season. After the win Wednesday night, the Cavs improved to 14-12. That’s good enough for 7th in the Eastern Conference. However, making the post season will be no easy feat. There is only a 2.5 game difference from the #4 seed Miami Heat and the #11 seed New York Knicks.
