The Cleveland Cavaliers are searching for talent on the margins this summer. They have a pair of second-round NBA Draft picks that could help them accomplish this. We’re profiling several prospects to keep an eye on as we approach the big day.
Today, we’re focusing on Javon Small.
Who is Javon Small?
Small is a 6’2” guard out of West Virginia. He played for three separate colleges during his four years, ending his collegiate career strong with 18.6 points and 5.6 assists per game in his senior year.
Where is Small expected to go in the draft?
Mock drafts have Small going somewhere in the late second round of the draft. This puts Cleveland in a position to target him with the 49th or 58th picks.
What do the experts say about Small?
Maxwell Baumbach of No Ceilings:
“Javon Small is typically a guy I’d caution against getting too excited about. He’s an older, undersized prospect. However, it’s hard to argue with the production and the tape.. Offensively, he can play on or off the ball effectively. Defensively, while his size will always be a limiting factor of sorts, his footspeed, strength, and grit should help compensate for that to a degree.”
NBA Draft Room:
“A tough, hard-nosed guard with a well-rounded game and good lead guard skills. Is a steady hand running the point and shows a nice balance of play-making and scoring.”
Adam Finkelstein of 247 Sports:
“While he led Oklahoma State in usage this year, what stands out is the overlap of volume, versatility, and efficiency in his game. Small can operate effectively in a variety of different situations.”
How could Small help the Cavs?
The Cavs are in desperate need of a backup point guard. Their lack of ball handling was on display against Indiana’s full-court press when Darius Garland was unable to help them due to injury. Another capable playmaker who can run an offense would be immensely helpful.
Small might be able to play that role. He rose to the occasion in his senior year to embrace a high-usage role once injuries opened the door for him to get more playing time. Perhaps a similar situation could emerge in Cleveland.
All that said, Cleveland isn’t exactly in the market for another 6’2” guard. They’re already heavily undersized in the backcourt as is. Adding an older prospect who lacks size and athleticism is a risk. But if Small really has this “it” factor to his game — he might surprise the people who are underestimating him.