2021 NBA lottery mock draft: Cavs get franchise changer

Wine & Gold Country was fearing the worst for the Cavs in the NBA draft lottery, but things didn’t go terribly wrong, as the lotto balls revealed Cleveland to possess the third pick in the 2021 NBA draft.

In a draft where experts are predicting that superstars can be found in the top five spots, Cleveland will happily take the news that they’re picking third, unless GM Koby Altman is foolishly looking to trade the chance to take a franchise altering player.

For Cavs fans who’ve suffered watching countless losses the past two seasons, this is great news, as it was feared the Cavs would be picking  in the 7-9 range based off odds.

The Cavs have made five first round picks over the course of the last two drafts, and four still remain with the team, with the exception being Kevin Porter Jr.

Despite the number of first rounders, Cleveland has been able to translate their first-round picks into victories on the court. Former No. 8 pick Collin Sexton has turned into an excellent scorer, while 2019 No. 5 overall pick Darius Garland really came on in year two. Dylan Windler, a late-round pick from 2018, seems to be hurt all the time.

Last year’s first-round Isaac Okoro, had his moments, but still has a long ways to go.

With the draft order set, here’s The Factory’s first mock…