What Marcus Morris Brings To Cavaliers
The Cleveland Cavaliers get some late-season reinforcements as they've reportedly agreed to a 10-day contract with veteran Marcus Morris. This is the name and player that NBA fans are probably familiar with considering he's played for seven different teams over his 12-year career.
Let's take a look at exactly what Morris brings to this Cavs team.
3-And-D Impact
In the prime of Morris' career, he was one of the better 3-And-D players in the NBA. He's well past his 20 points a game part of his career when playing for the New York Knicks in 2019-20, but he's still proven himself to be a quality role player.
Morris shot 40% (2.4 attempts per game) in 37 games with the Philadelphia 76ers this season. More specifically, he's shooting 36% on corner threes. The 34-year-old is also still a solid defender as he has a defensive rating of 117 this season
The Cavaliers have put a strong emphasis on defense and creating opportunities from that this season. Morris being a plus defender and creating more floor spacing will fit perfectly into Cleveland's scheme.
Nov 2, 2023; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers forward Marcus Morris Sr. before a game against the Toronto Raptors at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
© Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
A New Team "Enforcer"
Remember when fans and the media criticized the Cavs for not being "tough enough" or saying that the team was "too soft in the paint" and so on? The Morris signing should change that narrative.
Morris has been known for his intensity, toughness, and at times, has been considered an "enforcer" on his past teams. Adding him into the mix will give Cleveland a different mentality when he's on the floor.
