Cleveland Cavaliers 2007 Draft Preview

Cleveland was swept in four games by the San Antonio Spurs in the finals, but it will only benefit from the experience. It took superstar LeBron James four years to get the Cavaliers to the championship round.

James, who appeared in the postseason for the second time in his career this past season, played in 78 games during the regular season. He led the club in scoring (27.3 ppg), assists (6.0 apg) and also pulled down 6.7 rebounds per game. The 6-8 James is arguably the top player in the league and is the franchise player.

Larry Hughes, who battled a heel injury during the finals, averaged 14.9 points, 3.8 boards and 3.7 assists in 70 contests for the Cavaliers. Center Zydrunas Ilgauskas posted 11.9 points and 7.7 rebounds, while forward Drew Gooden netted 11.1 and grabbed a team-best 8.5 boards.

Gooden, Hughes and Ilgauskas are James’ main supporting cast, while Sasha Pavlovic, Donyell Marshall, Anderson Varejao and rookie Daniel Gibson, who shined in the East finals, are decent role players. However, Gibson hit some big shots during the postseason, and will get a chance to play a bigger role in 2007-08.

The Cavaliers don’t have any picks in this year’s draft. Chances are they will be spectators and will make their moves during free agency. Building around James, and getting him players who complement his skills will once again be the goal during the offseason.

Key Player(s): Daniel Gibson (Guard), Drew Gooden (Forward), Larry Hughes (Guard), Zydrunas Ilgauskas (Center), LeBron James (Forward), Damon Jones (Guard), Donyell Marshall (Forward), Sasha Pavlovic (Guard), Eric Snow (Guard), Anderson Varejao (Forward).

Team Needs: Consistent perimeter shooter and point guard.

Draft picks: NONE.