Derrick Williams brings excitement to the Cleveland Cavaliers bench, something that it has sorely lacked
The former second overall pick, Derrick Williams, isn’t ever going to live up to the expectations that he once had on draft day. Looking back on it, there is a pretty steep drop off from Kyrie Irving to Derrick Williams when discussing back-to-back draft selections. Ironically, they both play for the same team today, the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Williams was only playing 15.1 minutes per game for the Miami Heat this year before being waived. Inconsistent and limited playing time, including several DNPs, made Williams practically useless in a Heat uniform.
Especially with the emergence of James Johnson and – later – Okaro White, Derrick Williams did not fit a need in Miami.
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LeBron James repeatedly asked for a playmaker. Although they did not get that in Williams, they did get someone who can provide a spark off the bench, especially with Kevin Love out for an extended period of time.
In only four games, Williams is averaging nearly 10 points off the bench (9.8), and shooting 60 percent from the field thus far. Williams comes in for Channing Frye or Tristan Thompson and can provide a lift off the bench. Although he won’t add much physicality or rebounding in the paint like Thompson, he can still stretch the floor like Frye.
He is skilled and athletic, so he can get to the basket better than Frye, who is primarily a threat from three-point range.
Williams will never be a star or superstar, and will often be talked about as a bust. However, Cleveland provides the perfect scenario for Williams. He does not have any pressure whatsoever, he can play his game freely, and he can play for a winning team. He brings legitimate excitement off the bench. Williams is still only 25 years of age. LeBron is happy to have him in Cleveland.
"[via CBS Sports]“We hope that this is a long-term thing,” James said of Williams after the Cavs’ 125-109 win over the Denver Nuggets on Saturday. “Obviously, we know that he’s on a 10-day contract, but we believe it’s going to be long-term.”“We’re happy to have him,” James said. “It’s not many places you’re going to find a 6-[foot]-8 wing with athleticism like that at 25. So we’re lucky to have him.”"
Time will tell if Derrick Williams will continue to be a part of the Cleveland Cavaliers. Though, all indications point to yes.