Getty
CLEVELAND, OHIO – MAY 13: Evan Mobley #4 of the Cleveland Cavaliers reacts after making a three-point basket against the Indiana Pacers during the third quarter in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Second Round NBA Playoffs at Rocket Arena on May 13, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
The Cleveland Cavaliers are hoping to get Evan Mobley back as soon as possible to put together a healthy roster. Cleveland acquired James Harden at the trade deadline to completely change their dynamic for the rest of the season. Harden is considered a better facilitator than Darius Garland and should boost the big men’s scoring for the Cavaliers.
Cleveland beat writer Danny Cunningham reported that the Cavaliers expect to get Mobley back for the first game after the All-Star break. Mobley has been dealing with a calf sprain over the past few weeks to take him off the court. Harden’s presence has helped Cleveland look much better, and he’s already helping Jarrett Allen become a bigger part of the offense.
Mobley should have a far easier job once he returns with two guards often drawing defenses in to set up their teammates for good looks. Extra pressure on Mobley as the second offensive option this season led to mixed results, but he’ll have a more natural role in the offense once back. Cleveland will hope to get back Max Strus and Dean Wade soon to complete the full roster for the first time this season.
Coach Plays Up Mobley/Harden Connection
Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson talked about the expectations of both Mobley and Allen both benefiting from having Harden run the offense. Donovan Mitchell has been given the unfair task of having to carry Cleveland’s offense and put up nearly 30+ points for the team to have a chance to win most games.
Atkinson said the following about Mobley’s impending return:
“I’m not sure if James has ever played with two bigs. It’s usually four shooters, one big, but I have no doubt he’ll figure that one out too. We’re trying to get ahead of it. With the coaches, we’ve talked about it. I don’t want to overload James right now.”
Harden has a reputation for getting the most out of his centers. Names like Clint Capela, Joel Embiid and Ivica Zubac all had easier opportunities to score once Harden was their point guard. Atkinson expressed confidence that Harden will be able to thrive with two big men in the lineup instead of two.
Mobley Is Key For Title Contention
Cleveland entered the season as the strong betting favorites in the Eastern Conference to make the NBA Finals. Disappointing play saw them falling clearly behind the Detroit Pistons, New York Knicks and Boston Celtics in the East pecking order to warrant making trades at the deadline.
Garland and De’Andre Hunter both getting traded showed they were willing to take risks if it meant raising the ceiling for this season. Mobley is arguably the most important player to have success in the playoffs. Mitchell always plays well in the postseason, and Harden is expected to facilitate more than score.
Mobley must score at a high level at the better paint presence and needs to continue his run as one of the best defenders in the league. Cleveland needs Mobley to both become a trusted scorer every night and shut down opposing big men from paint points.
Joey Haverford Joey Haverford is a seasoned sports content writer with over 12 years of experience. He has covered the NBA, WNBA, MLB, NFL, and professional wrestling in the sports industry. More about Joey Haverford
More Heavy on Cavaliers
Loading more stories