2020 NBA Draft mock 5.0: First 31 picks in early October

2020 NBA Draft mock #5: Cleveland Cavaliers- Tyrese Haliburton

The Cavaliers are still trying to find a long-term identity. Recent lottery picks Darius Garland and Collin Sexton have the ability to handle the ball and play point guard, but might be best suited as secondary creators. Cleveland could use a versatile perimeter defender after finishing 30th in defensive rating this season.

Tyrese Haliburton is coming off a breakout season with Iowa State. The 20-year-old averaged 15.2 points, 5.9 rebounds, 6.5 assists, and 2.5 steals per game while shooting 50.4 percent from the field and 41.9 percent on his 3-point tries.

NBA teams believe he can fit both on and off the ball. The 6’5 guard is an outstanding shooter and floor spacer. His ability to handle the ball and make plays could give the Cavaliers a few new dimensions next season and beyond.

Haliburton profiles as a plus defender too. He produced stellar steal and block numbers for a guard. Haliburton has a high basketball IQ that allows him to jump passing lanes and create havoc for the opposition.

The Cavaliers should go for the best player available making Tyrese Haliburton the pick. He has the versatility to guard one through three and play on or off the ball on the offensive end.

Next: No. 6