Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
The Cleveland Cavaliers made a fantastic signing by bringing in former Golden State Warriors guard Jarrett Jack. After the Warriors brought in Andre Iguodala, Jack became available as it took the potential re-signing of their backup point guard out of the question.This could prove to be the biggest reason why the Cavs sneak into the playoffs in 2013-2014.
In the 2013 NBA Playoffs, Jack provided a lot of energy and consistent scoring off the bench for the Warriors. Backing up Stephen Curry, he allowed Golden State to give their superstar a rest without having to worry about a severe drop-off in production.
The scoring ability of Jack is what he brings to the table, first and foremost. He has the talent to knock down the three ball as well as take it to the hoop. Jack averaged over 17 points per game in the playoffs compared to just 12.9 in the regular season, also shooting a higher percentage from the field at 50.6 percent.
Something I think often overlooked about Jack last season was his knack for getting teammates involved. Coming off the bench, of course, he gave the Warriors 5.6 assists per game. Not many teams can say they have a backup point guard as formidable as Jack is all the way around.
In every aspect, offensively at least, Jack will help the Cavs. Allowing starting point guard Kyrie Irving to take a break once and a while without lacking scoring and direction on the floor is going to be something the Cavs have missed recently.
Cleveland will also probably get Jack and irving on the floor at the same time quite often. That type of duo could prove to be immensely dangerous to opposing defenses. If they decide to focus on stopping Irving, then it opens things up for Jack, and vice versa.
It’s unfortunate for the Warriors having to let go of Jack, but on the other hand the Cavs will be glad he became available. Jack may wind up in the conversation for NBA Sixth Man of the Year when it’s all said and done — and that is something Cleveland cannot complain about.
Ryan Heckman is a Senior NBA Writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @ryanmheckman, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.
