The Cleveland Cavaliers find themselves at a crossroads with one of their most intriguing young players: Nae’Qwan Tomlin. While the team as a whole hasn’t quite delivered on the lofty expectations that followed them into the season, Tomlin has quietly carved out a compelling case for himself - not through eye-popping numbers, but through the kind of gritty, high-energy basketball that doesn’t always show up on the stat sheet.
Tomlin is currently averaging 6.1 points and 2.9 rebounds per game - modest numbers on paper. But those who’ve been watching closely know that his impact goes far beyond the box score.
He brings a relentless motor, defensive versatility, and a willingness to do the dirty work that every good team needs. That’s why head coach Kenny Atkinson has dubbed him “Racehorse” - a nod to the way Tomlin sprints into every possession with purpose, whether it’s chasing down a loose ball or rotating to contest a shot.
Here’s the situation: Tomlin is on a two-way contract, which limits him to 50 NBA games this season. After Cleveland’s recent win over the Philadelphia 76ers, he’s now appeared in 31.
That means the Cavaliers are fast approaching a decision point. Do they convert his deal into a standard NBA contract and make him a permanent part of the roster?
Or do they risk losing a player who’s already proven he can contribute at the highest level?
Given how Tomlin has earned semi-regular minutes - depending on matchups and team availability - it’s hard to imagine Cleveland letting this opportunity slip away. He’s become a trusted piece in Atkinson’s rotation, and the coach has been vocal about what makes Tomlin so valuable: “Energy, doing all of the little things: cutting, offensive rebounding,” Atkinson said earlier this season.
That was on full display in the win over Philadelphia. Tomlin didn’t score a single point, but he still made his presence felt with two rebounds, two assists, a steal, and a block. That’s the kind of all-around contribution that doesn’t just help win games - it builds trust within the locker room and among the coaching staff.
If the Cavaliers do decide to convert his contract, don’t expect a major shift in his role. Tomlin likely remains a second-unit spark plug - someone who comes in, plays hard, fills gaps, and gives the team a jolt of energy. But that’s exactly the kind of role that can swing momentum, especially in the grind of a long season.
For a team still trying to find its rhythm, Tomlin has been a bright spot. He’s earned this moment, and if Cleveland’s front office is paying attention - and there’s every reason to believe they are - then a full NBA deal feels like the logical next step.
Sometimes, it’s not about the numbers. It’s about the impact. And right now, Nae’Qwan Tomlin is making his case loud and clear.