The 30th pick not working out is not a "painful setback" We traded 2 mediocre 2nds, one basically useless 2nd, and one totally useless 2nd for him and got one pretty much useless 2nd back. It was a smart gamble, it simply didn't pay off. But the cost was low, the setback is minor, and if anything it brings our talented young core closer and shows they can trust the FO/coaching staff to do the right thing and put culture and character first.
It seems like there's a few of these types of guys available in the late first/early 2nd round every year. The Cavs can take more swings like that going forward if they want.
But to put a lower ceiling on the Cavs..simply because KPJ is gone... just doesn't make any sense.
Sexton is 22..a budding young star guard..elite scorer and competitor. Team player. Hard worker. Smart.
Garland is 20. Still a long way to go physcially, but already this year has shown huge flashes of potentially already taking a leap. He's been dominant in practice at times and is an extremely skilled and impressive young guard who is perfect for this NBA. Team player. Hard worker. Smart.
Okoro is 19. Already showing signs of being an elite defender, can hit corner threes, great in transition, good passer. Team player. hard worker. Smart.
Jarrett Allen is 22. A true defensive anchor at the 5. Great rebounder, blocks shots. Extremely efficient, Finishes well around the rim, good hands, good FT shooter.
Taurean Prince is only 26 even, has good size, and is a great fit as a 3 and D forward on a reasonable contract, IMO.
Nance Jr is only 28, but is a perfect vet for this team. His Cleveland ties, he's been an elite defender, especially as a team defender...just a great fit, smart guy, positive influence, etc.
Cedi is only 25. is proving to be a legitimate rotation player on a decent contract.
McGee, Drummond, Love are all solid vets that are good pieces to put around young guys...and I anticipate getting assets in return eventually for at least 2 of the three(McGee now, maybe Love next year).
Cavs will have probably another late lottery pick/mid first. Depending on health, future moves, etc.
Cavs are in a great position going forward to build a consistently competitive team. The best strategy is to build a continuous young core, and once you hit on at least a star or two, if you keep your assets open and your powder dry...even small market teams like us could have an opportunity to make a Toronto-esque Kawhi trade to make a title run....
I really truly believe we have two stud guards, both future all-stars. Sexton right now in particular is already pushing into stardom.
Sky is the limit for this organization with what we're currently building.