Evan Mobley’s three-point shooting has become a significant asset for the Cleveland Cavaliers in December, propelling them to the top of the NBA standings. While Mobley’s offensive improvement was initially attributed to his increased aggression and better finishing at the rim, his expanded range beyond the arc has truly transformed the Cavs’ offense.
This season, Mobley is shooting an impressive 43.7% on threes, attempting 2.4 per game – double his volume from last year. What’s even more encouraging is his recent 16-game stretch, where he’s taking over three three-point attempts per game and connecting on 48% of them. This improvement isn’t just a flash in the pan; it’s supported by his increased free-throw percentage, which has climbed to nearly 78% this season.
The impact of Mobley’s shooting extends beyond just adding points to the scoreboard. It’s changing the way defenses approach the Cavs, creating more space for his teammates to operate. His ability to stretch the floor has made him an even more formidable partner for Donovan Mitchell, as evidenced by their impressive on-court chemistry.
Mobley-Mitchell Pairing Shines
The pairing of Evan Mobley and Donovan Mitchell has been a revelation for the Cavs this season. When these two are on the floor together (without Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen), the team boasts a staggering +16.8 point differential per 100 possessions. This is a dramatic improvement from last season when the same pairing struggled to make a positive impact.
This success can be attributed to Mobley’s growth as a player and Mitchell’s willingness to empower his young teammate. The new offensive system implemented by coach Kenny Atkinson has allowed this pairing to flourish, showcasing the potential of Mobley at the center position.
While the Mobley-Mitchell duo has been stellar, it’s worth noting that the Garland-Allen pairing has also shown significant improvement. When these two are on the floor without Mobley and Mitchell, the Cavs are still outscoring opponents by 8.1 points per 100 possessions – a testament to the team’s depth and versatility.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Cavs’ lineup dynamics, tune into the Locked On Cavs podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Cavs Podcast:
• The Cavs’ impressive rankings in offensive and defensive efficiency
• Upcoming West Coast road trip and its significance
• Analysis of the Cavs’ performance against above-.500 teams
