Emoni Bates has signed a two-way contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers, according to the NBA transaction log. The Cavs now have another two-way slot open after signing JT Thor last week.
Bates spent his rookie season mostly developing in the G-League. His time with the Charge was largely successful, with Bates averaging 21.6 points and 5.7 rebounds in 27 games. However, Bates has yet to meet some developmental goals.
We haven’t had a chance to see Bates play properly without the ball. That can be difficult in the G-League, with few playmakers available to smooth the way for Bates. In Summer League and with the Charge, he was seen with the ball more often than if Bates were to step into Cleveland’s main rotation. That problem is waiting to be solved.
Bates’ natural ability as a shooter makes him a popular prospect for good reason. He’s a tough shooter in a league that prioritizes shooting skills. But carving out a role for himself will be a constant struggle in Year 2. As a rookie, he was inefficient from the field, shooting less than 40 percent from the field and less than 35 percent from beyond the arc. That’s manageable with the Charge, but it would never work at the NBA level.
A fresh start is fair for both sides. The Cavs would love to have a homegrown talent who can develop into a top-notch three-point shooter on the wing. Likewise, Bates should take every opportunity to establish himself as a professional. The Cavs have invested in him for at least one more season. Putting it all together will be Bates’ responsibility.
