Cavs mock draft chatter: Pick would likely force trade
A recent mock draft had the Cavs snagging Gonzaga’s Jalen Suggs with the fifth pick in the upcoming NBA Draft–and the selection could have huge roster implications if it happens.
Chad Ford, a former ESPNEr who now runs has his own subscription site, NBAbigboard.com, has the Cavs taking Suggs with the fifth pick. The lottery isn’t settled yet ,but the Cavs are owners of the league’s fifth worst record.
Cade Cunningham was mocked first to the Rockets, while G-Leaguer Jalen Green went second to the Pistons. Evan Mobley went third to the Magic, while Jonathan Kuminga went fourth to the Thunder.
If Suggs is the pick, the selection would mark the third draft in four years the Cavs took a a small guard in the lottery, who’s primary responsibility has been running the point.
Suggs is listed at 6-foot-4, while Darius Garland and Collin Sexton are both 6-3.
If Suggs is Cavs Pick
If Suggs is the pick, and I agree with Ford’s prognostication here, something is going to have give with the roster, and a trade of Collin Sexton would probably be likely. Much is being written and talked about regarding Sexton’s contract extension, and it just seems like GM Koby Altman can’t make the former 8th overall pick a max player.
Something’s gotta give, and it likely means a trade of Sexton, who should have value as a 24.0 point-per game scorer.
Adding Suggs would still put the Cavs in a conundrum of having two small point guards starting in the backcourt with Suggs and Garland, but at the very least, Suggs is a player to get excited about.
The Gonzaga product was the face of March Madness, known for hitting the amazing buzzer-beater that valued his team into the national title game. He’s a winning player who competed at the highest levels of college basketball.
Considering the drop-off after the first five picks, the Cavs can’t afford to pass on a talent, such as Suggs.
dark. Next. 3 moves Cavs can't make this offseason
The lottery order will be determined June 22. Cleveland has an 11.5 percent chance of winning the first pick and a 45.1 percent chance of securing a top-4 selection.