The Cleveland Cavaliers find themselves in a familiar place, struggling to remain relevant in a post-LeBron era. However, unlike the first time around, the Cavs appear to have a better chance of rebuilding without the kid from Akron.
With aspirations to make the 2020 NBA Playoffs, the Cavaliers will need a strong rookie season from their lottery pick and growth from their cadre of young guards.
Cavaliers Roster Additions
| Player | Transaction |
| Isaac Okoro | Draft (5th) |
| Thon Maker | Free Agency (DET) |
Biggest Acquisitions
- Isaac Okoro: Isaac Okoro was drafted because of his defensive potential, positional versatility and his win-at-all-costs mentality. As the Cavaliers continue to build a winning culture, Okoro fits right in as a Marcus Smart-type hustler player with Jaylen Brown-like offensive potential.
- Thon Maker: Thon Maker is, surprisingly, still just 23-years-old. If he can put his skillset together, he can be a productive and dynamic big man. At the very least, he can provide valuable depth at multiple frontcourt positions.
Cavaliers Roster Losses
| Player | Transaction |
| Tristan Thompson | Free Agency (BOS) |
| Ante Zizic | Free Agency (INTL) |
Biggest Losses
- Tristan Thompson: It seems like ages ago when the Cavaliers drafted Tristan Thompson out of the University of Texas and his career in Cleveland has been a winding one. Now a savvy veteran, Thompson’s leadership, toughness, hustle and presence inside will have to be replaced.
- Ante Zizic: Ante Zizic’s game is better suited for the international game, so his decision to sign with Maccabi Tel Aviv was a smart one. However, with the Cavs, Zizic was a solid low-post scorer and a consummate professional.
