Because the Donovan Mitchell-led Cleveland Cavaliers have been unable to mount a deep run in the NBA playoffs, it is obviously much harder to appreciate everything the players have accomplished over the last few years. Isaac Okoro’s impact often got lost in the shuffle. The 2020 top-five draft pick provided valuable defensive intensity along the perimeter and helped the Cavs build another identity following LeBron James’ second departure.
When the franchise amassed a 163-83 record in the last three regular seasons, Okoro was not often regarded as a core member of the team. His importance was undeniable, however. The Cavaliers and home crowd at Rocket Arena seem to be well-aware of that fact. The 24-year-old wing, who was traded to the Chicago Bulls in exchange for point guard Lonzo Ball in the summer, reconnected with his former teammates on Tuesday night.
Ahead of a Cavs-Bulls preseason matchup, Okoro shared hugs and laughs with the men he took the court with during the first chapter of his NBA career. The bonds he built in Cleveland appear to still be strong.
The former Auburn standout was a key part of this era of Cavaliers basketball, but the organization believed his cost was simply too high to warrant another year together. He averaged 8.1 points and 2.8 rebounds in 26.2 minutes per contest, while also shooting 46.7 percent from the field and 35.1 percent from 3-point range in five seasons with the team. Though, it was Okoro’s difference-making defense that defined his Cleveland tenure.
Now, he will try to bring the fire to the Bulls, a stagnating squad that is need of direction and new life. Perhaps Isaac Okoro will provide it. He is off to a hot start in preseason play, scoring 11 points in 18 minutes of action at time of print. The Cavs will try to get used to facing a former one of their own.
