Cleveland’s Crown in Sight as Evan Mobley Aims to Break MVP Drought
The Cleveland Cavaliers are on the cusp of a significant transformation, with the potential for their first MVP since the legendary LeBron James. At the heart of this change lies Evan Mobley, a player whose trajectory suggests he may soon emerge as a frontrunner for the league’s highest individual honor.
Mobley’s Ascent in the NBA
As Mobley embarks on his fifth season with the Cavaliers, he has steadily solidified his status as one of the brightest stars in the NBA. Last season, at just 23 years old, he claimed the Defensive Player of the Year title, secured a spot on the All-NBA second team, and made his debut at the All-Star Game, finishing 10th in the MVP voting.
His growth has not gone unnoticed. Analysts, including those from Bleacher Report, highlight Mobley’s potential to vie for MVP candidacy in the near future. The key to this ascent? A significant uptick in offensive production.
The Impact of Coaching on Mobley’s Game
Under new head coach Kenny Atkinson, Mobley’s offensive game has taken notable strides. Historically, Mobley struggled with his three-point shooting, making only 67 shots from beyond the arc over his first three seasons, with a shooting percentage of 26.5%. However, after just one year of coaching under Atkinson, that number soared. Mobley drained 85 three-pointers at an impressive 37.0% clip, showcasing his ability to adapt and improve.
Atkinson’s influence has emphasized the importance of increasing Mobley’s offensive volume. As a player already recognized as the NBA’s premier defender, enhancing his scoring will be crucial for sustaining his MVP aspirations.
The Need for Offensive Growth
Despite Mobley’s accolades, he recognizes that to truly contend for the MVP, he must elevate his offensive game. Last season, he averaged a career-high 18.5 points per game, continuing a trend of improvement in scoring each year, barring a setback during the 2023-24 campaign where he battled injuries, missing 32 games.
His usage rate also reflected his growing role within the team, peaking at 23.2% last season. With key players like Darius Garland and Max Strus projected to miss the early part of the upcoming season, Mobley will have ample opportunity to further develop his offensive repertoire and increase his contributions on that end of the floor.
Looking Ahead
As the season approaches, all eyes will be on Mobley. The Cleveland Cavaliers find themselves at a pivotal moment, poised to reclaim their status as a formidable force in the NBA. With Evan Mobley leading the charge and the potential for an MVP campaign on the horizon, the franchise could soon find itself back in the spotlight — a place they have not occupied since the days of LeBron James.
