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Cleveland Cavaliers Roster 2021-22: Did the Offseason Trades Make or Break Collin Sexton’s Unit?

It’s tough to look at the present-day Cleveland Cavaliers and imagine this franchise played four consecutive NBA Finals. From that trio of LeBron James, Kyrie Irving, and Kevin Love, they only have K-Love now and he too was on the cusp of an exit. But that does not mean they did not try to rebuild with the 2021 off-season.

The best move perhaps came when they re-signed former Nets player Jarrett Allen. Plus, on the coaching side, the Cavs front office swapped Lindsey Gottlieb with Sidney Lowe. However, the area where they lagged was filling for more trustworthy wing options. So how does their roster condition appear?

Incoming players:

Evan Mobley

The #3 draft pick in Evan Mobley was certainly a great addition for the Cavs. The 7-footer has a wingspan of a crazy 7’4” and his offensive play is unquestionable. He can make transition plays, get those massive dunks, and use his IQ to help with defense. If only he can work on building more strength, it can be huge for his side.

Ricky Rubio

The Spaniard had a very decent Tokyo Olympics outing this year and he must be pumped up. The Cavs acquired his services from the Timberwolves in the hope to get a leadership voice on the floor. He helped Anthony Edwards for the Wolves and he can do that for the Cavs too.

Here is the trade, per source:
Cleveland gets: Ricky Rubio

Wolves get: Taurean Prince, cash and a 2022 second-round pick

— Jon Krawczynski (@JonKrawczynski) July 29, 2021

Lauri Markkkanen

The Cavs received Lauri Makkanen from the Bulls at the time when The Finnisher’s performance was degrading. With no playoff experience under the belt and a worrisome defense, Lauri will have to prove his worth.

Outgoing players:

Taurean Prince

To get their hands on veteran Ricky Rubio, the Cavs had to let go of Taurean Prince, some cash, and a 2022 second-round draft. Now, this was a bet that they took and only time will tell who won this trade.

Quinn Cook

The Cavs had earlier signed Quinn Cook only on a 10-day contract, twice. Then, they denied to re-sign him after his 20-day seven-game stint and that left the Laker with no options in hand.

JaVale McGee

OFFICIAL: #Cavs acquire F/C @ipjh55 and two second round draft picks.

DETAILS: https://t.co/hV7iHlWh4h pic.twitter.com/BBmlo2NFCQ

— Cleveland Cavaliers (@cavs) March 26, 2021

The Nuggets got their man back into the squad for his second inning when they acquired the duties of champion JaVale McGee. In return, they gave away Isaiah Hartenstein and two second-rounders to the Cavs.

Dante Exum

In a four-team deal, Dante Exum had left Cleveland for Houston in January 2021 itself. During that mid-season window, the Cavs had also lost Andre Drummond on a buyout.