The Cleveland Cavaliers understand that Evan Mobley could turn out as their best player a few years from now. However, the Cavs aren’t going to apply all the pressure in the world on the 20-year-old rookie.
Mobley is a tantalizing talent who has the tools to become the best player in the stacked draft class of 2021. The Cavs are eager for him to reach his potential, but it will require a cautious approach to his rookie-season workload.
Via Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com:
“With Evan, you want to give him every opportunity to be successful, so you want to put him in positions to be successful,” JB Bickerstaff said. “Give him a chance to let his skills show and play to his strengths… We will be cautious of too much, too soon, but I think his game is going to dictate what too much is. We don’t want to put the weight of the world on his shoulders.”
The Cavs rookie has drawn comparisons to Anthony Davis. Both players have a rare combination of length and skills that comes with a ridiculous two-way upside. It should also be noted how the New Orleans Pelicans handled Davis’ rookie year, though.
In the 2012-13 campaign, Davis averaged 13.5 points on 28.8 minutes per game. He had a usage rate of 21.8%. These numbers pale in comparison to any season that ensued in AD’s career.
Mobley is expected to contribute to the Cavs as early as opening night. It’s hard to contain such talent. Still, Cleveland would be best served if they follow the model set by the Pelicans with Davis.
