Despite being eliminated from the second round of the 2025 NBA playoffs, the Cleveland Cavaliers likely believe they can contend for a championship next season.
Yet, while the Eastern Conference looks wide open, the Western Conference has some juggernauts. If the Cavaliers want to be crowned champions, they will have to overcome the best team out West in a seven-game series.
As such, Koby Altman is likely looking for ways to improve his roster without messing up the franchise’s cap situation. Andy Quach of Sports Illustrated has suggested that Altman turn his attention toward Victor Oladipo. The former All-Star has recovered from his injury issues and is currently an unrestricted free agent.
“At this point in the offseason, Cleveland shouldn’t be looking for a solid-but-unspectacular innings-eater,” Quach wrote. “Instead, they should be using their two open roster spots to swing for the fences in hopes of adding somebody who can significantly raise their ceiling and potentially help lead them to a championship. Victor Oladipo could be that guy.”
Oladipo was last seen in the NBA during the 2022-23 season, where he played 42 games for the Miami Heat. During that spell, he averaged 10.7 points, 3.5 assists and 3 rebounds per game. If healthy, he could provide a legitimate scoring punch to the Cavaliers’ second unit next season.
Oladipo is Ready to Return to the NBA
On Sunday, July 14, Oladipo took to social media to announce that he’s ready to return to the NBA. He also noted how he hopes his journey can inspire others who are struggling with difficult times.
“I feel so great right now!!,” Oladipo wrote. “Better than I felt in the last 7 years mind, body and soul. I know I am a fighter! I know I am a warrior! I have seen every lens this game and this league has to offer. I know I can help any team in any role win in any way! I also know the people want to see me succeed in this game and play at the highest level again. My injuries are behind me and it will never happen again!”
Before injuries limited his career, Oladipo had proven himself as an All-Star-level talent. He’s a capable three-level scorer and secondary playmaker. Slotting him into Kenny Atkinson’s rotation could give the franchise the push it needs to contend next season.
Cavaliers Urged to Target Sharpshooting Veteran
If the Cavaliers opt not to pursue Oladipo, Quach recently highlighted Doug McDermott as a potential free agency target. McDermott is one of the best floor-spacing forwards in the NBA.
“With a frontcourt featuring two non-shooters in Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, Cleveland could always use some more shooting on their roster, as could pretty much every contender in the league,” Quach wrote. “The Cavaliers could also afford to add more depth on the wings. Doug McDermott would fit both of those needs.”
The Cavaliers have multiple options to round out the current roster. Logically, it would be wise for at least one of the new additions to be an experienced veteran. After all, once the playoffs arrive, the Cavaliers will need all the leadership they can get.
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