Since being drafted fifth overall in the 2020 NBA draft, Isaac Okoro has had an up-and-down time as a Cavalier. However, it seems the 23-year-old is likely to remain in Cleveland per Evan Dammarell. Okoro is expected to sign his 11.8 million dollar qualifying offer as trade rumors have fizzled out.
Former Top-5 Pick Expected to Stay With Cavs
Following the end of the 2023-24 season, it was no surprise the Cavs haven’t eyed a long-term deal for Okoro. In his fourth NBA season, Okoro averaged 9.4 points and 3.0 rebounds on 39.1% shooting from three. While playing great defense, Okoro continued to be inconsistent offensively. With no contract looming, Okoro’s future became uncertain. The Brooklyn Nets have been engaged in trade talks for Okoro. However, as the summer draws to a close those rumors have died down. With no deal seemingly pending it looks like Okoro will end up back in Cleveland for the short term.
Qualifying Offer
By signing his qualifying offer with the Cavs, Okoro will remain a Cavalier for the upcoming 2024-25 campaign. This season will mark the Cavs first under new head coach Kenny Atkinson. Atkinson plays a fast-paced style, a total flip from former head coach J.B. Bickerstaff’s philosophy, which could suit Okoro. Okoro has been one of the Cavs’ best players in transition since he was drafted. Per NBA transition stats, Okoro plays in transition on 31% of his possessions which is fifth in the league. Among those possessions, Okoro is shooting 65.1% from the field and scoring 1.27 points per possession which is third on the Cavs. Okoro’s strength and speed allow him to get downhill and attack the basket. Regardless of his strength in the open court, Okoro will not be able to play a key role in the rotation if he does improve his shooting.
By signing the qualifying offer Okoro will be betting on himself, as he will play on a one-year deal. Okoro’s defensive intensity will give him value to a Cavs team lacking size in the backcourt. But, if Okoro is to become a crucial member of the Cavs rotation he will need to be a more consistent shooter. Additionally, when Okoro’s contract expires he will not be a restricted free agent like he was this offseason. His restricted status is likely a reason no trade was seriously considered as no team was willing to part with any major assets to acquire him. Okoro will be able to hit the open market next summer which will make it easier for him to find a suitor if he is to move on.
The Last Word
At the end of the day, Okoro is a career 34.7% three-point shooter. For a fifth-overall pick, his career has not been what the Cavs have expected. It is hard to commit to a player whose inconsistencies are rather large. However, at 23, Okoro is still young and has plenty of potential. With a new coach, he could be poised to have a breakout season. Across his four career NBA seasons, Okoro has improved each year as a shooter. Another year of growth could make Okoro a premier ‘3&D’ player in the league.
