The Cleveland Cavaliers have been home to many great basketball players over the years. Fans were lucky enough to watch LeBron James play for most of the last two decades. He often made people guess that he would win the MVP award. However, LeBron is not the only talented player in the Cavs’ history.
Many other skilled players have also worn the Cavs jersey, making the team a significant part of the NBA. Here, we will explore some of the best players who have ever played for the Cleveland Cavaliers.
1. LeBron James
LeBron James is known for his incredible athleticism and strength. He can score from anywhere, make amazing passes, and play tough defense. Some people think he might even be the best basketball player ever.
LeBron grew up in Akron, Ohio, and he promised to bring a championship to the Cleveland Cavaliers in his second stint with the team. In the 2016 NBA Finals, the Cavs were down 3-1 against the Golden State Warriors, a team that had the best regular season record ever with 73 wins and just 9 losses. LeBron led the Cavs with two games of 41 points each to tie the series. The finals then had a dramatic Game 7, where LeBron made one of the most famous plays in basketball history by blocking a fast break layup by Andre Iguodala.
This play shifted the momentum in the Cavs’ favor, making them the first team in NBA history to come back from a 3-1 deficit in the Finals. LeBron’s dedication and skill earned him the Finals MVP award unanimously.
Over his career with the Cavaliers, LeBron led the team to the Finals four other times and earned two regular-season MVP awards. He was also named to the All-NBA Team ten times and was selected for the All-Defensive Team twice. His time with the Cavaliers solidified his status as one of the greatest players ever to don the jersey.
2. Kyrie Irving
Kyrie Irving is celebrated for his impressive dribbling skills and creative finishing at the basket. During his time with the Cavaliers, he became a crucial player for the team. One of the most memorable moments in Cavs’ history is Irving’s game-winning three-pointer over Stephen Curry in Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals.
This shot helped secure the Cavaliers’ first-ever NBA championship. Throughout that series, Kyrie was exceptional, averaging more than 27 points per game. While with the Cavaliers, he earned a spot on the All-NBA Team, further proving his talent and importance to the team’s success.
3. Mark Price
Mark Price is regarded as one of the most accurate shooters in NBA history. During his time with the Cavaliers, he achieved the remarkable feat of joining the exclusive 50-40-90 club, which means he averaged at least 50% on field goals, 40% on three-pointers, and 90% on free throws in a single season. This consistency in shooting made him a dangerous offensive threat.
Price was a four-time All-NBA guard, emphasizing his skill and impact on the game. He ranks second in assists and steals, third in three-pointers, and fifth in points in Cavaliers’ history. His ability to both score and facilitate the offense made him an indispensable player for the team during his tenure.
4. Brad Daugherty
Brad Daugherty had a fantastic career with the Cleveland Cavaliers, even though he only played eight seasons. He was a five-time All-Star, showing how good he was at center. Daugherty averaged 19 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game.
His shooting was very accurate, with a field-goal percentage of 53.2%. Daugherty ranks third in all-time scoring and fourth in all-time rebounds for the Cavs. His skills and contributions were vital in making the team competitive during his time.
5. Larry Nance Sr.
Larry Nance Sr. was a player known for his incredible jumping ability and defensive skills. While playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers, he had impressive statistics, averaging 16.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 2.5 blocks per game. Nance was also a three-time All-Star and earned three spots on the All-Defensive Team due to his strong defensive play.
He ranks third in the Cavaliers’ history for the most blocks, making him one of the best shot-blockers the team has ever had. His all-around skills and defensive prowess made him a key player during his career. He is also famous for being the first player to ever win the NBA All-Star Slam Dunk Contest in 1984.
6. Zydrunas Ilgauskas
Zydrunas Ilgauskas, often called “Big Z,” is one of the most beloved players in Cavaliers history. Despite facing several foot injuries early in his career, he didn’t let these setbacks stop him. Ilgauskas worked hard and became a two-time All-Star, showcasing his talent and determination.
He played a crucial role in helping the Cavs reach their first-ever NBA Finals in 2007. Today, he holds the record for the most blocks in the team’s history and is second in both points and rebounds.
7. Kevin Love
Kevin Love was a key player for the Cleveland Cavaliers, especially during their 2016 championship run. Throughout his time with the Cavs, Love averaged 15.7 points and 9.2 rebounds per game. His ability to shoot from long range made him a perfect fit for the team’s offense, and he became known for hitting crucial three-pointers. In fact, he ranks second in the franchise for the most three-pointers made.
Love’s five selections as an All-Star highlight his importance to the team and his contributions to their success. His strong performances helped the Cavaliers win their first-ever NBA championship, cementing his place in the team’s history.
The Takeaway
These seven players have made significant impacts on the Cleveland Cavaliers’ history with their skills, dedication, and memorable performances. From LeBron James’ legendary plays to Kyrie Irving’s game-winning shots, each player brought something unique to the team.
Understanding these players’ contributions is essential, especially if you’re interested in Cavaliers betting lines. Knowing their skills and achievements can help you make more informed decisions. Their legacy continues to inspire fans and new players alike.
