Despite missing the playoffs, the Cleveland Cavaliers had one of the best seasons in recent franchise history. This was the first time since the 1997-98 season that the franchise had a winning record without LeBron James on the roster, which is a step in the right direction.
This offseason, they will look to build upon that success and continue reshaping the roster. One of the players that will be involved in that process is Collin Sexton.
Sexton is entering restricted free agency after the two sides were unable to agree to a rookie extension before the deadline last year. Unfortunately for Sexton, he was unable to build up his case as he was injured 11 games into the season.
The Alabama product tore his meniscus and missed the remainder of the season. There is at least some very good tape on him, as the last time he was healthy during the 2020-21 season, he was averaging 23.4 points as a 22-year-old.
LATEST NBA NEWS AND TRADE RUMORS: This Pacers-Cavaliers Trade Swaps Collin Sexton, Malcolm Brogdon
That level of production will get a player paid and Sexton is looking to cash in. Shams Charania of The Athletic, a subscription-based publication, recently shared an update about the No. 8 overall pick from the 2018 NBA Draft, as he is healthy and looking at a nice raise this summer.
“Cavaliers restricted free agent Collin Sexton has been cleared for full basketball activities, sources said. Sexton underwent surgery in November to repair a torn meniscus and has made a complete recovery on the eve of entering free agency. Rival execs believe Sexton’s market could reach the $20 million-per-year range.”
That is excellent news for Sexton, as he will be able to take part in all offseason activities with his teammates, whichever organization that may be with. The argument could be made that the Cavaliers are better off going in a different direction, as the team played well despite him being sidelined.
LATEST NBA NEWS AND TRADE RUMORS: This Pacers-Cavaliers Trade Swaps Collin Sexton, Malcolm Brogdon
However, Sexton’s strengths are some of what Cleveland could use to take that next step. You don’t give up on players that can score the ball as efficiently from every level as Sexton can, especially with how young he is.
While he may never be a lockdown defender because of his lack of size and his playmaking needs work, you will never have to worry about him not giving it his all. Sexton has a high motor and is a hard worker. His scoring prowess would help take pressure off of Darius Garland, providing the team with another go-to option on the offensive side of the ball.
