Evan Mobley has always felt like he's right on the edge of something bigger-like a breakout is just around the corner. He's already earned Defensive Player of the Year honors, a rare feat for someone so early in their career, and he's a major reason why the Cleveland Cavaliers have been able to stay competitive in a deep Eastern Conference. But the question still lingers: can Mobley make that leap offensively and become the kind of star who changes the trajectory of a franchise?
Saturday night in Orlando, Mobley gave us a glimpse of that potential. Early in the game, he attacked the paint with purpose, throwing down a powerful dunk over Paolo Banchero-the reigning Rookie of the Year-and letting out some emotion in the process.
It wasn’t just a highlight; it was a statement. Mobley came out with energy and aggression, trying to set the tone in what could easily be a first-round playoff preview.
But as the game wore on, the offensive rhythm that’s often eluded him this season showed up again. He went into halftime shooting just 3-of-10 from the field and missed all three of his attempts from beyond the arc. That’s been the story with Mobley-flashes of dominance, followed by stretches where he fades from the offensive picture.
Meanwhile, Donovan Mitchell continues to carry the offensive load for Cleveland. He’s averaging 29.0 points per game on 48.2 percent shooting, and he’s doing it with the kind of consistency you expect from a true No. 1 option.
The Cavs know what they’re getting from Mitchell every night. What they don’t know is whether Mobley can become the kind of co-star who lifts this team from playoff hopeful to legitimate contender.
Evan Mobley with the POSTER on Paolo Banchero 😳pic.twitter.com/KEeZDXop0B
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) January 25, 2026
That’s the next step in Mobley’s evolution. He’s already a defensive anchor, someone who can guard multiple positions, protect the rim, and make life miserable for opposing bigs. And even as he works through the ups and downs on offense, he’s still averaging 18.0 points per game-a solid number by any measure.
But Cleveland needs more than solid. They need Mobley to become a consistent force, someone who can take pressure off Mitchell and give the Cavs a true two-headed monster.
If he can reach that level, the Eastern Conference suddenly looks a lot more interesting. If not, Cleveland may continue to hover around the middle of the pack-dangerous, but not quite dangerous enough.
For now, it’s about the little moments. In Orlando, the Cavs took a 55-48 lead into halftime, and Mobley’s early energy was part of that. Whether he can sustain it for four quarters-and for the rest of the season-might end up being the difference between a good team and a great one.