New Cleveland Cavaliers forward Mario Hezonja doesn't feel the need to prove anything this year.
After an exciting run to the Eastern Conference Finals last season, the Cleveland Cavaliers will be looking to get themselves back.
One of the more fascinating signings for the Cavaliers this offseason was the team bringing in veteran forward Mario Hezonja. Hezonja has been out of the NBA since the 2019-20 season, but Cleveland had been trying to get him back even before this offseason.
The forward has been playing overseas since leaving the NBA, suiting up for multiple teams in the process. This includes Real Madrid, a Russian team, UNICS Kazan, and Panathinaikos, with most of his success coming with Real Madrid.
Hezonja will be coming over to help the Cavaliers out, giving the team more of a scoring boost in whatever role he is given. The veteran understands where he is at this stage of his career, especially after leaving the NBA for multiple years.
However, even with the NBA comeback, the veteran forward doesn't feel the need to prove himself this year. Instead, Hezonja will be trying to give whatever he can to the Cavaliers, helping them in whatever way he can.
Hezonja was the Spanish Liga MVP, leading the team to the top of the standings. With Real Madrid, the forward put up 17.5 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.9 assists over 44 appearances.
It may be tough for him to bring this type of scoring to the NBA, but he can shoot the ball well, which may help the Cleveland offensive attack. His best year in the NBA before he left to go overseas came in 2018-18 with the Orlando Magic.
Herzonja averaged 9.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 1.1 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game. Now, he will be trying to carve out a nice role with the Cavaliers this season, trying to make an impact on this team as they go after a title.
With Donovan Mitchell, James Harden, and others on the roster, Hezonja won't be counted on to score too much. But instead, if he can provide a boost to the bench, it could really make a difference for the Cavaliers, especially when games get tighter in the playoffs.
Cleveland will try their best to win a title this season, but the depth of the roster gives hope to them being a top unit again. The new season will open up on October 22 on the road against the Philadelphia 76ers.
