Isaac Okoro and the Cleveland Cavaliers have agreed on a three-year, $38 million contract, marking a successful deal for the defensive wing. While it may not have been the ideal contract Okoro hoped for as he entered restricted free agency, it is still a solid one, securing his future with the team.
The deal includes $33 million in guaranteed money, giving Okoro a raise from the $8.9 million he made last season in the final year of his rookie contract. However, his restricted free agency status limited his bargaining power, as other teams expected Cleveland to match any reasonable offers.
Last season, Okoro averaged 9.4 points per game and improved his shooting to 39.1% from three-point range, but his offensive consistency remains a concern. While Okoro has proven himself as a valuable defensive asset, Cleveland sought more offensive firepower, which led them to acquire Max Strus.
With Strus in the mix, Okoro is likely to come off the bench and share minutes at the small forward position, competing for playing time while maintaining his defensive role.
The Cavaliers have retained their core players, including Donovan Mitchell, Jarrett Allen, and Evan Mobley, who all signed contract extensions this offseason.
The team is looking to build on last season’s success when they secured 48 wins, a No. 4 seed, and a first-round playoff victory. Cleveland’s front office hopes that new head coach Kenny Atkinson can implement an offensive strategy that helps the team take the next step in their development.
With a competitive Eastern Conference ahead, the Cavaliers face the challenge of maintaining their momentum and improving their performance. Okoro’s continued development, especially on offense, will be crucial to the team’s success. While Okoro’s defensive prowess is unquestioned, the Cavaliers are banking on their collective improvement under Atkinson’s guidance to compete with top-tier teams in the East.
In locking in Okoro with this contract, the Cavaliers have ensured he remains a part of their core moving forward. While his role may shift due to the addition of Strus, Okoro’s defensive contributions, and potential offensive growth make him a valuable piece for Cleveland as they aim to solidify themselves as contenders in the Eastern Conference.
