The Cavaliers’ quintet of young guns have continued their baptism by fire out West. They tasted the thrill of victory in Sacramento and the agony of defeat in Portland. On Saturday, they face the top dog of first-year players – Blake Griffin – when the Wine and Gold wrap up their Western Conference schedule for the season.
The final 15 games will be an audition for almost every member of the Cavaliers, and that includes their freshman five.
Semih Erden has been battling injuries all season and he’s seen action in just a single game for Cleveland. Christian Eyenga, the Cavs youngest rookie, has plateaued after some solid midseason starts. Manny Harris came off Cleveland’s bench to notch double-figures against Portland. Luke Harangody was a big contributor in Wednesday’s win over Sacramento, as was Samardo Samuels – whose double-digit scoring streak was snapped against the Blazers.
As the NBA’s regular season hits its homestretch, the Cavaliers five frosh will look to make their mark. They’re aware of the Draft picks the franchise is awaiting and that those incoming rookies will be looking for time next year – same as they were this year. If they’re going to impress Coach Scott and his staff, now’s the time to do it.
Meanwhile, the Cavs young bloods continue to carve out their NBA niche as we’ll see in today’s Rookie Report …