The Cleveland Cavaliers are off to a strong start this season, thanks to the dynamic duo of Donovan Mitchell and James Harden. With three games under their belt, the pair has shown impressive synergy. However, the upcoming game against the Brooklyn Nets introduces a new variable: the return of Evan Mobley.
Harden is known for thriving in well-spaced lineups, and integrating a second big like Mobley could shake things up. Harden hasn't had much recent experience in this setup, so Mobley's role will be crucial.
Mobley's shooting has dipped this season, hitting only 30.4% from beyond the arc compared to 37% in previous years. Since December, his outside shooting has fallen to 21.1%. If this trend continues, Mobley will need to capitalize on the opportunities created by Harden's playmaking.
Mitchell shared his thoughts, saying, “Evan needs to build on what he did last year and earlier this season. He was great at finishing downhill before his injury. Now, he needs to excel in the half roll and at the rim.”
Mobley has been effective around the basket, converting 73% of his shots inside, putting him in the 75th percentile. This ability to exploit mismatches is key, but it's not the whole picture.
This season, Mobley has stepped up as a passer, boasting a career-high assist rate of 17.9%, which translates to four assists per game. His ability to score or pass in the paint is solid, but quick decision-making in the half roll remains a question.
Mobley shines when he's decisive. Quick, assertive reactions in the short roll lead to positive outcomes, both as a scorer and facilitator. However, if his first option is blocked, he can struggle with indecision.
The Cavs' head coach, Kenny Atkinson, acknowledges the unknowns of the two-big lineup with Harden. While Donovan Mitchell is accustomed to playing with two bigs, Harden brings a different dynamic compared to Darius Garland. Both guards are adept at involving bigs, but their styles differ significantly.
Atkinson noted, “Until you try it, you don’t know. Donovan is used to it, but with James, his high basketball IQ should help. It might take a bit to adjust.”
The Cavaliers won't rely solely on the two-big lineup, as Mobley and Jarrett Allen have averaged just 15.4 minutes together per game this season. This staggered approach should ease the transition.
Mitchell praised the strategy, saying, “Kenny has done a great job staggering the two. Evan and I will get back to our rhythm, and with J.A. and Harden, we’ve found something special.”
Trading for Harden was a gamble on his ability to adapt. The Cavs’ offensive talent has never been in question, but fitting it all together has been a challenge, particularly in the playoffs. Harden seems unfazed by the task of integrating the two-big lineup.
“There are so many opportunities,” Harden said. “With rolling bigs finishing at the rim, when Evan returns, it’ll be even better. We just need to figure out what works, but that shouldn’t take long.”
The Cavaliers are on a promising path, and as they navigate these adjustments, fans have every reason to be optimistic about what lies ahead.