Three Early Bright Spots for the Cavaliers Despite a 4-3 Start

Cleveland’s loss to the Thunder added to a run of uneven results, though the team has also found reasons for optimism. Hezonja has made an immediate impact, combining stronger rebounding with playmaking and scoring. He hit three 3-pointers and scored 12 points after halftime in the latest game highlighted in the account of his start.

Hezonja’s place with the team could become more secure soon: his contract is not fully guaranteed until November 15. His emergence has been particularly notable because Cleveland had not expected to rely on him so heavily.

Thomas, a second-round pick, has scored at least 10 points in four consecutive games. The Cavaliers went 3-1 in the four games he played, and coach Kenny Atkinson and Donovan Mitchell have praised the rookie. His progress could affect the team’s rotation as other players return to health.

Allen has also produced while playing roughly 27 to 30 minutes per game, fewer than the 32 to 34 minutes he could potentially handle. He has had multiple 20-point games, made some 3-pointers and nearly doubled his blocked shots per game compared with last season. The assessment is that more touches could help him take on a larger role.