At just 23 years old, Evan Mobley, the 7-footer for the Cleveland Cavaliers, has quickly made a name for himself in the NBA. Recently, Mobley agreed to a five-year, $224 million maximum rookie contract extension, showcasing the Cavaliers’ belief in his potential as a player. Agents Joe Smith and Thad Foucher of Wasserman announced that the contract could potentially reach $269 million, highlighting Mobley’s value to the team.
Mobley’s impact on the court is undeniable. As one of the league’s elite young defensive big men, he finished third in the voting for Defensive Player of the Year in 2023 and was named to the All-Defensive first team. Averaging 15.7 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game last season, Mobley consistently showcased his defensive prowess and offensive capabilities. His shooting percentages also saw a significant improvement, with 57.9% overall, 37.3% from 3-point range, and 71.9% from the free-throw line.
Mobley’s impact on the Cavaliers’ defense cannot be overstated. Since his arrival as the third pick in the 2021 NBA draft, Cleveland’s defensive rating has significantly improved. The team finished seventh in defensive rating last season, first in 2022-23, and fifth in 2021-22. Mobley’s ability to protect the paint and disrupt opposing offenses has been a driving force behind the team’s defensive success.
During the 2024 playoffs, Mobley had some standout moments that solidified his reputation as a rising star in the league. In Game 5 against the eventual champion Boston Celtics, he recorded 33 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 blocked shots in 43 minutes, showcasing his offensive versatility and defensive tenacity. Additionally, in Game 7 against the Orlando Magic, Mobley posted 11 points, 16 rebounds, and 5 blocks, leading the Cavaliers to their first series victory without LeBron James in over 30 years.
The Cleveland Cavaliers have been proactive in securing their future success by locking in key players like Mobley and hiring Kenny Atkinson as the new head coach. Atkinson, known for his developmental coaching style, expressed his desire to get Mobley more involved offensively, highlighting the team’s commitment to maximizing Mobley’s potential on both ends of the court.
Evan Mobley’s rise in the NBA has been nothing short of remarkable. From his defensive prowess to his offensive contributions, Mobley has proven himself to be a valuable asset to the Cleveland Cavaliers. With a lucrative contract extension and a supportive team around him, the future looks bright for Mobley as he continues to make his mark in the league.