Title: Evan Mobley’s 3-Point Shooting Could Be the Key to Cleveland Cavaliers’ Postseason Success
Introduction:
In Game 1 of the first-round series against the Orlando Magic, Evan Mobley’s impressive 3-point shooting showcased his potential to change the trajectory of the Cleveland Cavaliers’ postseason run. The impact of his two consecutive 3-pointers in the first quarter extended beyond the game, altering how Orlando guarded and allowing Cavs coach J.B. Bickerstaff to utilize his best defensive lineups. As Mobley and Jarrett Allen dominated the boards and showcased an elite defensive rating, it became evident that their partnership could be a game-changer for the team. However, the key to their success lies in Mobley’s ability to consistently make 3-pointers.
Mobley’s Emergence as a 3-Point Shooter:
While Mobley’s 3-point shooting has been a missing piece in his game, recent improvements and glimpses of his potential indicate that it is an area he is actively working on. During the latter half of the regular season, he shot an impressive 41 percent from beyond the arc. This willingness to take and make long-range shots has forced opponents to make difficult choices, leaving Mobley open on the perimeter. In Game 1, Orlando’s strategy was to give him open looks, similar to how the Knicks approached Isaac Okoro in a previous playoff series. However, Mobley’s confidence in his shot was evident as he confidently sank both attempts, prompting a timeout from the Magic coach.
The Impact on Cavaliers’ Offense:
Mobley’s ability to knock down 3-pointers has far-reaching implications for the Cavaliers’ offense. By keeping him on the floor alongside Allen, coach Bickerstaff has found a lineup that not only maintains defensive strength but also creates driving lanes for Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland. Opponents now face a dilemma: protect the paint or risk giving Mobley wide-open looks. Bickerstaff emphasized Mobley’s importance, stating, “If he’s making those shots, you can’t shift in and protect the paint as much as you want to because you’re just giving him wide-open looks.”
The Defensive Advantage:
The Cavs’ decision to play Mobley and Allen together for an extended period in Game 1 paid off defensively. Their 23 minutes of side-by-side play resulted in an outstanding defensive rating of 87.8. While Orlando’s struggling offense certainly contributed to this success, it offers a glimpse into the potential dominance of this pairing. Bickerstaff had previously staggered these two post players due to spacing issues, but their ability to anchor the defense while providing offensive opportunities is a game-changer for the team.
Looking Ahead to Game 2:
The Magic will undoubtedly make adjustments in response to Mobley’s impact in Game 1. This could involve assigning their top defender, Jalen Suggs, to guard Mitchell more rigorously and finding a solution for defending Mobley. It is possible that they may leave him open early in the game once again, testing his consistency. However, if Mobley continues to knock down shots, it will force Orlando to reassess their defensive strategy.
Conclusion:
Evan Mobley’s emerging 3-point shooting skills have the potential to elevate the Cleveland Cavaliers’ postseason performance. His ability to stretch the floor and force defenses to make difficult choices not only benefits his teammates but also solidifies the Cavs’ defense. As the series progresses, opposing teams will need to find a solution for guarding Mobley, or risk facing the consequences of his long-range shooting. With Mitchell leading the way and Allen anchoring the defense, Mobley’s contributions may hold the key to a successful playoff run for the Cavaliers.