Why The Cleveland Cavaliers Do The Deal
For what it’s worth, this deal isn’t really about splitting up Allen and Mobley for the Cavaliers.
After all, the duo flashed some potential last season. In particular, Mobley’s potential as a generational defender seals the deal. His ability to protect the paint and switch onto the perimeter allows the Cavaliers to enjoy a size advantage without compromising their ability to guard the perimeter.
Instead, this deal is about diversifying their roster. Sure, the Cavaliers can make two bigs work, but is it necessarily the best use of their resources?
We’d argue that this deal makes them better. Granted, it entails a risk – Patrick Williams has been injured far too often throughout his young NBA career. Still, when healthy, he’s looked like exactly the type of versatile wing defender who could thrive alongside Mobley.
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Meanwhile, the Cavalier’s point of attack defense may suffer between Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell next season. Adding Caruso allows the Cavaliers to stagger them, and add an elite defensive guard next to them when they do.
Finally, Derrick Jones Jr. adds a little more wing depth, and the Cavaliers get some draft capital here too. All told, if the Cavs intended to bump Mobley to the 5 in time, this is a good package to facilitate the move. What does it do for the Bulls?
