Caris LeVert's Best Role On The Cavs Still Isn't Clear
There's been one consistent question following Caris LeVert since the season began in October. That is, what will be the best role for him on the Cleveland Cavaliers?
This uncertainly has to do with whether he should be a starter or come off the bench, or play as the shooting guard or at the small forward. These are all scenarios in which LeVert has found himself at some point in the season.
To make matters even more complicated, he's returned mixed results at each position.
LeVert has played in 28 games as a starter. In that time he's averaging 15.2 points per game while shooting an efficient 42 percent from three and 41 percent from the floor.
The most recent game that Caris started in was when he filled in for Donovan Mitchell in Cleveland's contest against the Charlotte Hornets. He finished that game with 15 points while shooting about 42 percent. Just what his averages would suggest.
When LeVert comes off the bench, he averages just under 10 points a game and shoots the three at 33 percent. But he does have a higher field goal percentage of 43 percent.
These averages don't mean he always struggles when playing as a reserve. In Friday night's win over the Washington Wizards, LeVert led the charge off the bench with 15 points and even grabbed four steals.
There may be an explanation for why LeVert averages more points when he's a starter. The guard is someone who thrives when the ball is in his hands. But whenever LeVert starts, he's usually filling in for either Darius Garland or Donovan Mitchell.
Over LeVert's last five games averaging 18.4 points and 4.8 assists. This includes games where he's coming off the bench and starting. Perhaps with the injuries that the Cavs are dealing with LeVert should get a chance back in the starting lineup on a consistent basis.
However, this doesn't change the fact that LeVert has returned inconsistent results where he plays. When Caris is playing well, he can be a huge reason why the Cavs make a deep run.
But then there are the forgetful games that could leave LeVert with a lot of uncertainty as J.B. Bickerstaff works on tightening down the rotation as the playoffs approach.
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