Can Isaac Okoro Win Rookie Of The Year?

Perhaps the most impressive rookie so far this preseason  has been the 5th overall pick, Isaac Okoro. In his first three preseason games, Okoro has averaged 14.3 points, 1.7 steals and has shot 13-21 (61.9%) from the floor, 5-8 (62.5%) from three-point range. His efforts on both ends of the court have been extremely high and he may be the Cavaliers best perimeter defender this year. 

Okoro’s explosive nature and natural defensive instincts will make him a fantastic two-way player at the NBA level and early on in the season, he could end up solidifying himself as one of the Cavs best scoring options on the wing. Cedi Osman started every game for the Cavaliers on the wing last year and while he may begin the season as the team’s starting small-forward, Isaac Okoro could wind up taking over the starting role later in the season. 

The main reason why Isaac Okoro has a shot to win the Rookie of the Year award this season is because he is a “jack-of-all-trades” type of player. He can score at the rim, he can defend, he can rebound, he can pass and most importantly, he can play multiple positions on the court.

Perhaps the most overlooked part of Okoro’s game is his pick-and-roll game. He is a very talented passer in pick-and-roll situations and shows his high basketball IQ in these situations. His ability to take advantage of slower defenders or find his open teammate is something that is always overlooked at the NBA level and is something that could prove useful with the Cavaliers having both Kevin Love and Andre Drummond in the frontcourt. 

Paired with Collin Sexton, the Cavaliers have two explosive, young players to build with for years to come and if Okoro plays in the regular season like he is in the preseason, he could make a bigger impact on the Cavaliers than first imagined.