As we enter the seventh week of the NBA’s 2024/25 season, only two restricted free agents remain without new contracts, both of whom played for the Cavaliers last season.
Below are the unsigned RFAs:
According to Luke Adams, the Pistons are currently the sole team in the NBA with available salary cap space, placing Okoro, the fifth overall pick in the 2020 draft, in a challenging position regarding leverage. The Pistons have approximately $10.2 million in cap space, which could rise to nearly $18 million if they decide to part ways with big man Paul Reed, who is on a non-guaranteed contract.
Considering his age (23), defensive skills, and history with new head coach J.B. Bickerstaff, who previously coached him in Cleveland, Okoro appears to be a suitable target for the Pistons. However, there have been no indications that Detroit is contemplating an offer sheet for Okoro, and to make a compelling offer that might deter the Cavs from matching, they would likely need to waive Reed.
Furthermore, one could argue that adding Okoro to a roster that already includes recent lottery picks Ausar Thompson and Ron Holland, both of whom are known for their defensive abilities rather than their shooting, could be somewhat redundant. Last season, Okoro achieved a career-high three-point shooting percentage of 39.1%, but he remains hesitant to shoot, averaging only 3.1 attempts per game over 27.3 minutes. The presence of two players with similar profiles on the court simultaneously could significantly hinder the team’s offensive spacing, a challenge that has plagued Detroit for several years.
The Pistons’ roster also features Jaden Ivey, Simone Fontecchio, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Malik Beasley, all of whom will compete for minutes at the two and three positions. Veteran Tobias Harris offers another small forward option, although he generally plays more at power forward. Thus, even if the Pistons have a strong interest in Okoro, securing playing time would not be guaranteed.
Reports indicate that the Cavs have explored a sign-and-trade scenario with the Nets involving Okoro and Dorian Finney-Smith, but those discussions do not seem to have gained traction. A return to Cleveland still appears to be the most probable scenario for Okoro, but the real question revolves around the nature of the contract he might sign.
Considering the substantial financial commitments the Cavaliers made this offseason for Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen, along with Darius Garland‘s max contract, the team’s salary outlook for the 2025/26 season and beyond looks quite hefty.
While the Cavs reportedly value Okoro both on and off the court, it stands to reason that they would hesitate to extend a contract in the non-taxpayer mid-level exception range for several seasons. In a “worst-case” scenario, Okoro could opt to accept his $11.8 million qualifying offer and enter unrestricted free agency in 2025, potentially expanding his options.
Bates’ situation is more straightforward. The Cavaliers have designated one two-way contract for JT Thor, leaving two additional two-way spots open. It is anticipated that Bates, who spent his rookie season on a two-way deal with Cleveland, will return on another similar agreement.
Two Cavaliers Restricted Free Agents Remain Unsigned: What’s Next for Isaac Okoro and Emoni Bates?
Understanding Restricted Free Agency
Restricted free agency is a critical phase in the NBA where teams have the right to match any offer sheet signed by their players. For the Cleveland Cavaliers, two prominent players, Isaac Okoro and Emoni Bates, currently remain unsigned. This situation opens up several questions about their future, the team’s strategy, and the implications for the upcoming season.
Current Status of Isaac Okoro
Isaac Okoro, the 5th overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, has seen his role evolve significantly during his tenure with the Cavaliers. Known for his defensive prowess, Okoro struggled with consistency in his offensive game during the previous season. In 2022-2023, he averaged:
| Category | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Points per Game | 10.0 |
| Rebounds per Game | 3.5 |
| Assists per Game | 2.2 |
| Field Goal Percentage | 45.2% |
Despite his ups and downs, Okoro’s potential as a two-way player remains intriguing. He has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly on the defensive end, and can contribute significantly when fully developed.
The Cavaliers’ Perspective on Okoro
The Cavaliers are likely weighing their options regarding Okoro. His defensive capabilities are invaluable in today’s NBA, where versatility is key. However, his offensive development is crucial for him to retain a long-term position within the team. The Cavaliers could consider the following:
- Matching Offers: If Okoro receives an offer from another team, the Cavaliers may opt to match, believing in his potential.
- Sign-and-Trade: If the Cavaliers are uncertain about his future, they might look for a sign-and-trade to maximize his value.
- Short-Term Deal: A one or two-year deal could allow Okoro to prove himself further while keeping him under control.
Emoni Bates: The Rising Star
Emoni Bates has captured the attention of NBA fans and analysts alike due to his exceptional scoring ability and versatility. Drafted in the second round, Bates has made an impression with his smooth shooting and offensive skill set. In his debut season, he posted averages of:
| Category | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Points per Game | 14.5 |
| Rebounds per Game | 4.0 |
| Assists per Game | 3.0 |
| Field Goal Percentage | 42.5% |
Bates’ ability to score from various positions on the court makes him a valuable asset for the Cavaliers moving forward.
What’s Next for Emoni Bates?
As a restricted free agent, Bates’ future will depend heavily on the interest from other teams and the Cavaliers’ plans. Possible scenarios include:
- Long-Term Investment: If the Cavaliers believe in Bates’ potential, they might offer him a multi-year deal to secure his services.
- Evaluate Interest: The front office could gauge interest from other teams and consider how much they want to invest in his development.
- Training Camp Performance: A strong performance in training camp could influence the Cavaliers to re-sign him quickly.
Factors Influencing Their Decisions
The decisions surrounding Isaac Okoro and Emoni Bates will depend on multiple factors:
- Team Strategy: The Cavaliers will consider their overall strategy moving forward, especially with young talent like Darius Garland and Evan Mobley on the roster.
- Financial Flexibility: The salary cap situation will play a critical role in determining how much the Cavaliers can afford to pay both players.
- Market Demand: Interest from other NBA teams in both players could sway the Cavaliers’ decisions, especially if lucrative offers emerge.
Potential Outcomes for the Cavaliers
The Cavaliers face a pivotal moment in their roster construction. Here are some potential outcomes for both players:
| Scenario | Description |
|---|---|
| Retain Both Players | The Cavaliers keep Okoro and Bates, investing in their development for the future. |
| Part Ways with Okoro | If a lucrative offer comes for Okoro, the Cavaliers might choose to let him go. |
| Sign and Trade Bates | The Cavaliers could explore a trade for Bates if they receive an attractive offer. |
| Short-Term Deals | Both players receive one-year contracts to prove themselves. |
Benefits of Keeping Okoro and Bates
Retaining both players could offer several benefits for the Cavaliers:
- Defensive Versatility: Okoro’s defense combined with Bates’ offensive skills creates a balanced roster.
- Future Development: Both players have room to grow, making them valuable for the team’s long-term success.
- Fan Engagement: Keeping homegrown talent can enhance fan connection and loyalty.
Case Study: Previous Restricted Free Agents
To understand how the Cavaliers might approach the situation with Okoro and Bates, let’s look at a few case studies of other restricted free agents:
- Jalen Brunson: The Dallas Mavericks decided to let Brunson walk, which turned out to be a mistake as he flourished with the New York Knicks.
- Jordan Poole: The Golden State Warriors opted to extend Poole, and he became a critical contributor to their championship run.
- Collin Sexton: The Cavaliers faced a similar decision with Sexton and ultimately traded him, allowing them to evolve their roster.
Practical Tips for Cavaliers Management
The Cavaliers management should consider several strategies moving forward:
- Assess Performance Metrics: Continuously evaluate player performance to gauge their fit within the team.
- Engage with Players: Open communication with Okoro and Bates can facilitate smoother negotiations.
- Plan for the Future: Balance current roster needs with long-term aspirations to build a sustainable team.
First-Hand Experiences from Cavaliers’ Coaches
Cavaliers’ coaches have expressed optimism about the potential of both players. They have highlighted:
- Work Ethic: Both Okoro and Bates are known for their dedication and willingness to improve.
- Team Chemistry: Keeping them together fosters a sense of unity and shared goals within the team.
Conclusion…
The future of Isaac Okoro and Emoni Bates remains uncertain as they navigate their restricted free agency. The Cavaliers must weigh their options carefully, considering both players’ potential contributions to the team’s success. As the off-season progresses, all eyes will be on how the Cavaliers manage these two rising stars.
