Heading into the NBA Summer League, many had high expectations for two Cleveland Cavaliers, Isaac Okoro and Evan Mobley. There were several players on the Summer League roster that were still important to Cleveland outside of just Okoro and Mobley. Brodric Thomas, Mfiondu Kabengele and Lamar Stevens all came off the Cavs’ bench last year, and all played substantial minutes in the Summer League. During Summer League play, Stevens cemented his spot on the Cavs’ roster.
Stevens was a starter and played a lot of minutes on the Cavs’ Summer League team. He took advantage of his role by playing at a very high level averaging 14.6 points and 6.4 rebounds. In addition, Stevens shot well from the floor at 45.3%.
In the Cavs’ fourth Summer League game versus the Knicks, Stevens shined. He totaled 21 points, seven rebounds, two assists, two blocks and one steal. Also, Stevens shot an efficient 9/16 from the floor. Stevens did most of work in the lane as a driver, but he did knock down one three. He did only shoot 22.2% from three during the Summer League, so shooting 1/3 from three against the Knicks was better than normal.
Stevens actually struggled versus the Suns on Monday. Shooting 3/12 from the floor, Stevens still stepped up when the Cavaliers needed him most in clutch time. He had difficult finish through contact with only 25 seconds left to thwart the Suns.
While Thomas, Kabengele and Stevens were likely safe on Cleveland’s roster, they still wanted to have a solid Summer League to secure their spot. Stevens certainly did just that. More than likely, Stevens earned more playing time for the upcoming season.
Cleveland has made an effort to add wing help to their roster. Their wings off the bench are simply lacking, meanwhile Stevens is improving and can directly address this need. It is unlikely the Cavs sign a wing in free agency at this point. Stevens can be the solution for wing help. On the other hand, Stevens does not help the Cavs’ need for three-point shooting. Cleveland needs to add a shooter still. This can still work though, Stevens can provide wing help while a new acquisition helps the Cavs’ shooting.
Stevens simply deserves more playing time after his Summer League performance. He can be a physical defender, has athleticism, is a capable driver and is a solid rebounder. If Stevens keeps improving, the Cavaliers’ bench production can certainly improve.
At this point, the Cavs should be very happy with Stevens, he was an undrafted free agent after all. Most undrafted free agents just do not pan out. Stevens is heading into his second season, and so far he is turning into a great value for the Cavs. With a second year jump, Stevens can be an effective bench contributor.
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