The Cavs ranked 27th in defensive field goal percentage, 27th in rebounding margin and 30th (last) in defensive three-point field goal percentage. ESPN has a stat called adjusted defensive field goal percentage, which takes into account several categories -- and the Cavs were the worst team in the NBA.
Which is why coach Byron Scott is intrigued by Tristan Thompson, the 6-9 freshman power forward from Texas who was the Cavs' selection with the fourth pick in the first round.
"He can defend the post, and he can defend the pick-and-roll out on the court," said the coach. "He wants every rebound. He blocks shots. We consider him the best running big man in the draft, meaning he can get a defensive rebound -- and then get down the court for a dunk.
"And he probably sets the best screens of anyone in the draft," said Scott. "We will work on [his free throws], and he's the kind of kid who will work on it. But we must rebound better. We must defend better. We must be physical. He can help get us there."
More stories: