Source: Jason Miller / Getty
Cleveland Cavaliers Offseason Moves That Need To Be Made
The Cavaliers’ season ended with a thud, losing in just five games to the Indiana Pacers.
After a strong regular season, the early playoff exit was a major letdown. Donovan Mitchell played well, but Cleveland lacked consistent help. The roster still feels unbalanced, especially on the wing.
Kenny Atkinson is in, and expectations are high. The front office can’t afford to sit still this summer. With Mitchell under contract through 2026, now’s the time to build a contender.
Here are 12 realistic moves the Cavs need to make to finally break through in the Eastern Conference next season.
RELATED
Cavs’ Kenny Atkinson Wins 2025 NBA Coach of the Year
Cavs Rookie Gets Popcorn Prank, But Don’t Forget the Doughnuts
Cavs Blockbuster Trade Brings In Much Needed Help At Forward
1. Trade Jarrett Allen
Allen’s value is high after a strong season, but his fit alongside Mobley is still clunky. Trading him for a 3-and-D wing or stretch big better suits modern spacing — and Atkinson’s offensive system.
2. Promote Evan Mobley to Full-Time Center
Mobley’s defense speaks for itself, but it’s time to see his offensive growth flourish as the lone big. Atkinson’s player development chops could unlock his playmaking and face-up game.
3. Evaluate Darius Garland’s Fit with Mitchell
Garland’s talent isn’t in question — but the pairing with Mitchell in high-leverage moments has been shaky. If the right wing becomes available, the Cavs should at least listen to offers.
4. Prioritize Contending to Convince Mitchell to Stay
Mitchell has two more guaranteed seasons. The Cavs must be all in on winning now to encourage a long-term commitment before his 2026 player option looms.
5. Re-Sign or Replace Isaac Okoro
Okoro showed growth as a shooter, but he’s still limited. If he returns, it should be team-friendly. If not, find a similar defender with a more reliable offensive game.
6. Add a Veteran 3-and-D Wing
Cleveland needs a plug-and-play wing who can guard stars and hit open threes. Think Dorian Finney-Smith, Royce O’Neale, or even drafting someone NBA-ready like Baylor Scheierman or Jaylon Tyson.
7. Sign a Defensive-Minded Backup Guard
A bench unit with a defensive tone-setter would help in the playoffs. A Tyus Jones or Delon Wright type could stabilize things when Garland or Mitchell sit.
8. Fully Embrace Kenny Atkinson’s Offensive Identity
Atkinson thrives with pace, movement, and floor spacing. The roster needs more quick-decision players and reliable shooters to complement that style — especially around Mobley.
9. Find a Stretch Four to Pair with Mobley
Whether starting or off the bench, a power forward who can shoot (Trey Lyles, Jalen Smith) opens driving lanes and keeps the offense from bogging down.
10. Use the MLE to Fill a Playoff-Ready Role
The mid-level exception is their best chance to grab a rotation player without a trade. A gritty two-way wing or high-IQ vet with postseason experience should be the priority.
11. Let Sam Merrill and Emoni Bates Compete for Rotation Minutes
Both showed flashes — Merrill’s shooting and Bates’ creation. With Atkinson known for development, one could become a real contributor by April.
12. Improve Wing Size and Depth Across the Roster
Too many guards, not enough wings. The East is filled with long, athletic scorers. The Cavs must prioritize adding size and length on the perimeter to keep up defensively.
