Can Dylan Windler Work His Way Into The Cavs Rotation?
Dylan Windler is finally back!
Windler finally made his long-awaited season debut on Tuesday night as the Cleveland Cavaliers took on the Charlotte Hornets. He appeared in the fourth quarter's garbage minutes as the Cavs had already wrapped up the blowout win.
In his four minutes and seven seconds of playing time, Windler scored two points and missed the only three he attempted. It wasn't an outstanding display but still seeing number 9 on the floor was a great site.
Windler is in his third season with the Cavs but has only appeared in 82 career games. He's an example of a young talent who's had plagued with injury since entering the league.
Does Windler still have a chance to work his way back into the Cavs lineup? Probably not this season. That ship has sailed with the team in their home stretch and in the month of March.
I do leave a slight chance open that Windler finds himself playing in big minutes over a stretch of games before this year is over. J.B. Bickerstaff recently said the back of the rotation's playing time will be determined based on situation and need. Windler does contribute a unique skill set that could land him in a valuable position.
Windler has always been known for his shooting. He is just a career 32 percent three-point shooter, but some of that inconsistency could be due to his struggle to stay on the floor.
We have seen stretches where the forward/guard combo gets hot from behind the arc.
Dylan is also a strong rebounder for his position. He averaged 3.5 boards over 31 games in his rookie season. This isn't something many guards focus on.
It's not likely that this scenario takes place, but anything can happen in the NBA. If Windler wants to be a part of Cleveland's plans moving forward he needs to focus on a strong and healthy summer.
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