In a significant move that solidifies their frontcourt for years to come, the Cleveland Cavaliers have re-signed Evan Mobley to a five-year contract extension. The deal is reportedly worth $224 million and has the potential to increase to $269 million if Mobley meets the 30% max criteria.
Mobley’s contract extension mirrors recent agreements signed by Cade Cunningham, Scottie Barnes, and Franz Wagner. Each of these young standouts is expected to earn approximately $52 million in the fifth year of their contracts during the 2029-30 season. These lucrative deals reflect the high expectations placed on this talented cohort from the 2021 NBA Draft.
A Defensive Powerhouse
Since being drafted by the Cavaliers, Mobley has made an indelible impact, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. Last season, he was an all-around force, averaging 18.4 points, 11.0 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 2.8 combined blocks and steals per 36 minutes. His defensive prowess has not gone unnoticed, and his role in the Cavaliers' overall success can’t be overstated.
"We are thrilled to sign Evan to a long-term extension, solidifying his place as a cornerstone of our franchise. Evan has quickly established himself as one of the premier defensive players in the league, and we've only scratched the surface of his overall potential. Since drafting him, he only knows winning basketball and has proven to be pivotal to our team's success," stated Cavaliers President of Basketball Operations, Koby Altman.
Consistent and Reliable
In his first three seasons, Mobley has maintained a steady usage rate of around 20%, underscoring his reliability and consistency. His ability to deliver strong performances consistently has established him as a key player for Cleveland.
Alongside Mobley, the Cavaliers have also secured an extension for star guard Donovan Mitchell this offseason. Mitchell’s continued presence, combined with Mobley's defensive capabilities, positions the Cavaliers as formidable contenders in the coming seasons.
New Leadership
As the team looks forward to the upcoming season, they will be under the guidance of new head coach Kenny Atkinson. Known for his developmental acumen, Atkinson’s addition should further enhance the Cavaliers' growth trajectory.
Notably, several other prominent players from the 2021 draft class are still negotiating their extensions, making Mobley's deal even more significant. These players' upcoming contract decisions will further shape the competitive landscape of the NBA.
As the Cavaliers prepare for the future, the re-signing of Mobley highlights their commitment to building a team capable of competing at the highest level. With Mobley anchoring their defense and contributions pouring in from their other stars, Cleveland's prospects are looking brighter than ever.