NBA Preview: Rookie draft picks key for Cleveland Cavaliers

Cleveland Cavaliers

Placing last season: 21-45 (13^th in Eastern Conference)

Key moves: Cleveland benefitted from the picking fourth in the 2012 draft by virtue of their poor record in the previous season and selected Dion Walters, probably the biggest move they made in a quiet offseason.

Walters potentially gives them a formidable backcourt duo with likely all-star Kyrie Irving coming back for his second season in the league.

Challenges ahead: Developing this duo is the key challenge for Cleveland. With two high draft picks spent, they can’t afford to let the players fail, especially since no big moves were made for to bolster the team outside the draft.

They’re probably a little short in depth to make a dash for the postseason this year but it is still a development season for the Cavs. The team has got too many rookies or sophomores to be a major player in the league for the next season or two.

Reasons to be positive: The fact that Kyrie Irving is on the course to all-star status will have Cavaliers fans rejoicing. If Walters can put in a rookie season half as good as Irving did last year then this team will be in contention for a playoff berth next season.

Prediction: 29-53 (12^th in Eastern Conference)

image: © edrost88

Jason Torquato

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Jason Torquato has always been passionate about sport and has played golf and tennis from a young age. In recent years, he has mostly enjoyed sport from his sofa, which has allowed him to accumulate knowledge and good understanding of numerous disciplines, with a special focus on American sports. Jason can’t fall asleep or wake up without listening to a sport podcast.