Cleveland Oh. – In a game that allowed some of the role players, and Charge guys to get extended run, the Cavs beat the Israel team Maccabi Ra’anana 120 – 89. The Cavs led from start to finish despite resting most of their starters. Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Max Strus were all in street clothes as the Cavs allowed their stars some rest before the final tune up Friday night against the Pacers.
Rookie Emoni Bates came off the bench to lead the Cavs in scoring with 16. Shooting 50% from the field and 4 for 9 from three, Bates is an elite shot maker. When asked about Bates in the post-game, Coach JB Bickerstaff said “We are extremely fortunate, that Emoni was there at 49. Also, Emoni is fortunate to be here because the pairing works. If Emoni would have gone in the lottery, he would be in the ROY conversation.” High praise for a 19-year-old rookie. But not out of the blue. Bates has been impressive this year early on. Yes, there are rookie mistakes, and times he’s out of position. Yes, there are shots he takes that maybe he could get a better shot for himself or a teammate. But the willingness to get better is there.
Photo via Cleveland Cavaliers
Both Bates and fellow rookie Craig Porter Jr., have impressed the Cavs this training camp and preseason. Porter Jr. plays with a pace that makes it seem like he’s been in the league 2-3 years. Porter finished with 12 points and 6 assist off the bench. Asked what’s been the most challenging part of the NBA thus far? Porter was quick to pile on praise of his teammates. “I would say, guarding guys on this team in practice, showing me what the NBA is like, that’s been my welcoming” Porter Jr. has been a welcome surprise. Both he and Bates are both making strong cases for them to make the Cavs roster.
Photo via Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavs have an extra roster spot and maybe just maybe one of the rookies will get their contract converted into a full deal. For now, we get to watch them light up the preseason. The Cavs are building an organization from top to bottom that is excellent. The Charge with the talent they will have, will be a force. The Cavs are going to be really good. The spacing on the floor is already noticeable, and coach wants the Cavs to shoot more threes. When the Cavs play on the strong side, the weakside helper is going to have to make decisions. Will they help on the drive? Or will they stay home because there are shooters on the outside.
At the end of the day, the Cavs will be fun. The Charge will be fun. This is going to be a fun season. Are you ready?? Tonight was a sneak peek into some of the young guys. And they showed up. They may not play much Friday as Coach Bickerstaff said it will be a dress rehearsal of sorts against the Pacers. But if this was the last time we see the young guys for a while, they left everyone in the building feeling pretty confident in what the Cavs have depth wise. The Cavs are going to be good. The season can’t come soon enough!
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