In a significant move that underscores the Cleveland Cavaliers’ commitment to their young star, Evan Mobley has agreed to a five-year, $224 million maximum rookie contract extension. This deal could rise to as much as $269 million with performance-based incentives, as announced by agents Joe Smith and Thad Foucher of Wasserman on Saturday.
Cavaliers Lock in Young Star as Cornerstone for the Future
Since being selected as the third overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, Mobley has quickly cemented his status as one of the league’s premier defensive talents. At just 23 years old, Mobley has already made a considerable impact on the court, finishing third in the Defensive Player of the Year voting in 2023 and earning a spot on the All-Defensive First Team that same year.
Mobley’s remarkable defensive prowess is backed by impressive stats. Over the past three seasons, he joins an elite group of players with at least 300 blocks and 150 steals. The others in this exclusive company include Anthony Davis, Rudy Gobert, and Jaren Jackson Jr.
NBA Richest Contract: Jayson Tatum signed the Richest Contract In NBA History
Last season, Mobley averaged 15.7 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game, while achieving career-best shooting percentages of 57.9% overall, 37.3% from beyond the arc, and 71.9% from the free-throw line.
Despite battling a knee injury that limited him to 50 games during the 2023-24 season, Mobley continued to showcase his skills. His injury did not overshadow his exceptional performance in Cleveland’s playoff run, where he delivered a standout performance in their final game.
Cleveland Cavaliers F/C Evan Mobley has agreed on a five-year, $224 million maximum rookie contract extension that could become worth as much as $269 million, Joe Smith and Thad Foucher of @wassbasketball tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/sHu5KSb8aM
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 21, 2024
Mobley scored 33 points, grabbed 7 rebounds, and blocked 2 shots in a Game 5 loss to the Boston Celtics, who went on to win the championship.
Mobley’s new contract reflects his growing influence on the Cavaliers. The extension comes in the wake of the team’s other major offseason moves, including the hiring of Kenny Atkinson as head coach to replace J.B. Bickerstaff and the signing of star guard Donovan Mitchell to a three-year, $150.3 million max extension.
With this new contract, Mobley is set to remain a cornerstone of the Cavaliers’ future. His blend of defensive excellence and offensive efficiency makes him one of the most promising young talents in the NBA.
As he continues to develop and refine his game, Mobley’s impact on both ends of the court will be a key factor in the Cavaliers’ aspirations for future success.
This extension not only solidifies Mobley’s place as a key figure for the Cavaliers but also highlights the team’s commitment to building around their young star. With Mobley anchoring their defense and showing growth on offense, the Cavaliers are poised for an exciting future.
Read More: NBA Secures Historic $76 Billion Media Rights Deals
