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Cleveland Cavaliers: Top Three Lineups By The Numbers

By Evan Hablitzel

Feb 18, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Tyronn Lue calls a play during the third quarter against the Chicago Bulls at Quicken Loans Arena. The Cavs won 106-95. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 18, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Tyronn Lue calls a play during the third quarter against the Chicago Bulls at Quicken Loans Arena. The Cavs won 106-95. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /
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Cleveland Cavaliers
Mar 9, 2016; Sacramento, CA, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward Kevin Love (0) celebrates after making a three pointer against the Sacramento Kings during the fourth quarter at Sleep Train Arena. The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Sacramento Kings 120-111. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports /

PG- Irving  SG- Smith  SF- James  PF- Love  C- Thompson

MIN- (423)  OffRtg- (115.8)  DefRtg- (103.1)  NetRtg- (12.7)

AST Ratio- (18.2)  TO Ratio- (11.1)  PACE- (93.92)

This group is usually the starting rotation Ty Lue opts for, but occasionally the rookie head coach goes with Timofey Mozgov. See what happens when you eliminate the root of the problem?

Thompson brings intangibles, Mozgov does not.

The addition of the hard working Tristan Thompson, and removal of Mozgov, raises the net rating 23.4 points. I know no other options exist, but Mozgov is a liability on the court.

The Mozgov lineup has a -10.7  net rating, compared to Thompson’s 12.7 rating with the same group of players.

This group also turns the ball over 6.5 less times per 100 possessions. Mozgov has been an enigma for fans and coaching staff alike. On the contrary, Thompson has continued to elevate his level of play via his hustle and passion on the floor.

One could also bestow upon Thompson the highest compliment of elevating the intensity level of those he plays with. He’s third in the league in offensive rebounds per game with 3.3. The second chance opportunities he provides with his relentless effort cannot be understated.

Thompson brings intangibles, Mozgov does not.

Next: PG- Dellavedova SG- Smith SF- James PF- Love C- Thompson

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