If the Cleveland Cavaliers have one challenge to address after their 44-10 record heading into the All-Star break, it’s managing their deep roster in the playoffs.
Coach Kenny Atkinson has consistently relied on a 10- to 12-man rotation during the regular season, allowing rookie Jaylon Tyson to carve out a role while keeping the team’s stars fresh. Only Darius Garland, Donovan Mitchell, and Evan Mobley play more than 30 minutes per game, with Jarrett Allen averaging 28.9.
This balanced approach has fueled Cleveland’s success, enhancing their three-point shooting and maintaining energy levels. The return of Max Strus from injury bolstered the Cavs’ wing depth, while De’Andre Hunter has impressed from beyond the arc.
However, the postseason demands a tighter rotation, raising a key question: Who will be the odd man out?
Benching any Cavalier seems difficult, as even end-of-rotation players like Tyson contribute in short bursts. While the core four benefits from the team’s depth, playoff basketball requires tough decisions. Given Tyson’s inexperience, he’s the most likely to see reduced minutes. Beyond him, two more rotational players appear to be at risk as Cleveland adjusts to the demands of the postseason.
Sam Merrill is too unreliable
Last season, Sam Merrill was a rare bright spot on the perimeter for a Cleveland team that struggled with shooting consistency. He was the only Cavalier to surpass 40% from three and thrived in pin-down actions, making him a dangerous weapon.
However, Merrill is no longer an unknown threat. Opponents have adjusted by applying more pressure on the arc, exposing his lack of athleticism and strength. Without his three-point shot falling, his offensive impact is minimal. While he has improved defensively, staying more disciplined on assignments, he is still likely to be phased out come playoff time.
Coach Kenny Atkinson has utilized Merrill effectively this season, but with Max Strus and De’Andre Hunter commanding wing minutes, his role has diminished. His three-point percentage has dropped to 36.1%, and his limited versatility makes it difficult to justify a significant role in the rotation.
Merrill’s reduced playoff minutes seem inevitable. Strus’ return has absorbed many of his opportunities, and Ty Jerome’s emergence has solidified the backcourt depth. While Merrill could still provide an occasional offensive spark, he is unlikely to be a major factor in Cleveland’s postseason plans.
The Cavaliers don’t need Isaac Okoro enough
Despite a strong mid-season surge, Isaac Okoro may not be the piece Cleveland needs in the playoffs. He has been the Cavaliers’ primary defensive stopper since his rookie year, but with the team’s evolving defensive schemes, his role is less vital than before.
Cleveland’s defensive success stems from a combination of zone and man-to-man coverage, relying on team buy-in rather than individual stoppers. With De’Andre Hunter and Dean Wade likely handling big defensive assignments, Okoro’s presence is less crucial.
To his credit, Okoro has made offensive strides, shooting 39.7% from three this season. However, he attempts just 2.8 threes per game, making him less of a volume threat compared to Cleveland’s other wings. Given the Cavs’ depth, his offensive limitations could outweigh his defensive contributions.
The acquisition of Hunter may have sealed Okoro’s fate. A forward rotation of Hunter, Max Strus, and Wade will likely dominate playoff minutes, while Ty Jerome fills a key backcourt role. Atkinson’s preference for depth means Okoro may see minutes early in the postseason, but as the rotation tightens, his role will likely diminish.
As difficult as it is to phase out players who helped shape Cleveland’s rise, the Cavs must make tough choices to maximize their championship potential.
