Cleveland Cavaliers bigs Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley significantly contribute to their team’s success, earning them the best record in the NBA (29-4). Allen and Mobley combined for 48 points in a 149-135 win against the Denver Nuggets, setting a franchise record for most points scored in regulation.
Allen discussed Mobley’s impact this season and how he’s contributed to unlocking his potential during the team’s most successful season in nearly a decade, per Cleveland.com’s Chris Fedor.
“Evan has been amazing this year,” Allen said. “I have always wanted to push him forward no matter what. Whether it’s taking the toughest assignment on defense so he can shine and have more energy on offense or just being in the dunker spot so he can have more room. Whatever I have to do to make him the best player so he can unlock this offense and unlock this team, I’m willing to do it.”
Averaging a career-best 18.4 points on 59% shooting, 8.7 rebounds, 1.5 blocks, and 1.0 steals per game, Mobley remains a valuable asset on both ends of the floor for Cleveland. For head coach Kenny Atkinson, Mobley’s effort is a testament to his willingness to do whatever it takes to be successful.
And it’s paid off for the Cavaliers. They remain atop the Eastern Conference standings with a 29-4 record, leading the champion Boston Celtics by 5.0 games.
“He is just willing to do what it takes to win, whatever that ask is, and it could be different every night,” Atkinson said. “He’s a huge cog. He is invaluable. When he plays at a top level, we are really hard to beat.”
The Cavs are on an eight-game winning streak, winning 11 of their last 12 outings.
Brian Windhorst reveals what Cavs ‘need’ for a title push
Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst revealed what Cavs need to win an NBA title. Windhorst believes adding a top-tier wing defender could be the missing piece despite Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen’s defensive presence for the Cavs.
“What they need, is they need big wing defenders. They need a player who can be a real rotation piece,” Windhorst said. “The reason that you would entertain touching the team is if you felt you could get an upgrade there. Because that’s where they’re going to be challenged.”
“That’s why they’ve struggled against the Hawks this year, for example. The Hawks have these gigantic wings. To get a big wing, especially one that can play offense too, is very expensive,” Windhosrt concluded.
The Cavs will look to extend their winning streak to nine against the Mavericks on Friday.
