2021 NBA Mock Draft — 3. Evan Mobley, Cleveland Cavaliers
Even with Collin Sexton on the trade block, the Cavs should not hesitate to select Evan Mobley here. The looming Jarrett Allen extension complicates matters somewhat, but Mobley is a mobile, versatile player who can share the court well enough with Allen. He’s also the clear best prospect available in this spot.
Mobley is an efficient, skillful interior scorer at seven feet. His footwork is developed beyond his years, and his bouncy athleticism makes him a consistent finisher around the basket, whether out of the pick-and-roll or facing up.
Where Mobley will most help Cleveland, however, is defense. The Cavs desperately need a defensive backbone, and Mobley — in conjunction with Allen and Isaac Okoro — would start Cleveland in the right direction. He has drawn some Bam Adebayo comparisons due to his flexibility on both sides of the ball. That kind of player has immeasurable value in the modern NBA.