Cavaliers Should Give Hezonja More Opportunities to Create
Hezonja scored 65 points in two FIBA qualifying games, demonstrating his scoring prowess. The Cavaliers should use him in pick-and-roll situations and allow him to create his own shot rather than relegating him to a catch-and-shoot role. He can contribute at both power forward and small forward.
Hezonja has been away from the NBA since the 2019-20 season, but his recent FIBA qualifying performances for Croatia have showcased his scoring ability, including a 37-point outing with a game-winning shot against Turkey. He also averaged close to 18 points per game for Real Madrid and earned EuroLeague MVP honors the prior season.
The Cavaliers' typical rotation brings in three players during the first quarter and two more in the second. Hezonja would likely enter after Sam Merrill and Jaylon Tyson, playing 15-20 minutes per night primarily at power forward with some small forward minutes. Both James Harden and Donovan Mitchell could serve as lob throwers in pick-and-roll situations with the lengthy forward.
Hezonja's return could provide the Cavaliers with additional scoring depth off the bench, potentially strengthening their contending status. His ability to create his own shot may shift how the team structures its second unit, and his international success could boost fan engagement and ticket interest. However, integrating a player who needs the ball into an established rotation may require adjustments that could affect team chemistry.