Building an elite NBA defense isn’t easy. There’s a lot to consider and a lot of competing philosophies. Some would argue that locking down the interior is most important. That’s the traditional view. At the same time, the NBA is more perimeter-oriented than ever before.
In 2022-23, the Cavaliers took a somewhat traditional approach to defense. This team prioritized guarding the interior. The Cavs doubled down on rim protection by starting Jarrett Allen alongside Evan Mobley. At the same time, Mobley is a special prospect for his ability to guard both the interior and the perimeter.
Does that make him best suited for duties at the 4? Defensively, perhaps. Still, their combined lack of offensive ability proved problematic in the playoffs. In time, the Cavaliers may want to shift Mobley to the 5. Could they do so by trading Allen to the Oklahoma City Thunder?
The Trade Proposal
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: G/F Luguentz Dort, G/F Victor Oladipo, 2026 First-Round Pick (LAC via OKC)
Oklahoma City Thunder Receive: C Jarrett Allen
Mobley may be unique. With that said, similar players are becoming increasingly fashionable around the NBA. We’re seeing an influx of tall, lanky, mobile prospects. Mobley may be the first in a wave.
By now, you’re probably thinking of Victor Wembanyama. The San Antonio Spurs’ potentially generational prospect bears similarities to Mobley in that sense. There will be more. The 2024 draft is packed with similarly agile big men like Alexandre Sarr, Aaron Bradshaw, and Donovan Clingan.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Jarrett Allen, Cleveland Cavaliers & Oklahoma City Thunder Updates
Of course, the Thunder have a tall, mobile big man of their own. Chet Holmgren has the potential to be a superstar in the NBA. With that said, we know what you’re thinking. If the Cavaliers want to split Mobley and Allen up, why should the Thunder pair Allen with Holmgren?
Why The Oklahoma City Thunder Do The Deal
Don’t make the mistake of grouping Mobley and Holmgren so quickly. Sure, they’re similar. They aren’t identical. There are differences between these two that could make the Thunder’s potential pairing work.
Specifically, Holmgren is a better shooting prospect than Mobley. Floor spacing was the main problem between Allen and Mobley. If Holmgren hits his ceiling, that won’t be a problem for the Thunder. Meanwhile, Mobley is likely a stronger perimeter defender than Holmgren, but he’ll still be quick enough to thrive as a weak side shot blocker alongside a primary rim protector like Allen.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Jarrett Allen, Cleveland Cavaliers & Oklahoma City Thunder Updates
With that said, if it doesn’t work? Allen’s trade value will be static. He’s still young, and under contract for a few more years. If Holmgren proves more impactful at the 5, someone will be in the market for an elite defensive big man like Allen. Should the Cavaliers give him up?
Why The Cleveland Cavaliers Do The Deal
In some respects, the Cavaliers are in an odd spot. They’ve got a lot of talent, but it doesn’t all necessarily fit together. Meanwhile, there’s been speculation that Donovan Mitchell could force his way out of town. What should they do?
Well, this deal is an attempt to solve a few issues at the same time. The Cavaliers needed a solid defensive wing last season. Dort is an exceptional point-of-attack defender. He’s also a bit undersized. That’s OK – if the Cavaliers are forced to trade Mitchell, Dort can slide down to the 2 as his replacement.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Jarrett Allen, Cleveland Cavaliers & Oklahoma City Thunder Updates
Finally, the Cavaliers are light on first-round picks. This unprotected first from an aging, injury prone Clippers team is a valuable one. The Cavaliers restock their assets to one extent while landing a valuable, starting-caliber player. In time, Dort could help them build an elite defense.
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