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."