The dream for NBA teams is to build a title contender organically. The Golden State Warriors built a dynasty on the shoulders of three stars they drafted themselves (although signing Kevin Durant shook up the formula). The Denver Nuggets are among the title favorites with a homegrown trio, while the Boston Celtics have four starters from their own draft selections.
That’s what the Cleveland Cavaliers hoped for in building this team. They made five straight lottery selections and had the vision of a nucleus that would ascend together. When the Cavs were trotting out lineups in 2021-22 featuring Darius Garland, Collin Sexton, Isaac Okoro and Evan Mobley it looked like the plan was falling into place.