Dellavedova Continues to Step Up When the Cavs are in Need, Proving He Belongs

Since Williams is out, Dellavedova has been called to start the last three games and has not disappointed. The first night he started this season was against the Bucks, and Dellavedova had a career high 13 assists. The second night against the Hawks he had 12 points, and no turnovers. Monday night against the Magic Dellavedova put up 15 points, 9 assists, and 0 turnovers. As a starter, he’s averaging 8.3 assists and 11.3 points per game, and is a combined 6 of 11 with the deep ball (54%), and 55% from the field.

You’ll often see Dellavedova out on the floor late in the fourth quarter to get defensive stops. He plays physical, fights over the top on screens, and gets in your space which frustrates opponents and forces turnovers. If  you remember he was quite the hot subject during the playoffs when some were questioning his hard play as dirty, but his teammates and head coach David Blatt had nothing but praise for his valiant efforts.

It was noted by Dellavedova and staff he worked harder than ever to prepare his body for the grind of this season. The Aussie is currently shooting 44% from the field, 38.5% beyond the arc, and averaging 5.9 assists and 7.9 points per game. Not to mention, he has a plus/minus of 9.3, and PER of 14.37. It’s clear that he spent the offseason working on his shot, which looks exceptionally more fluent, and ball handling which has kept his turnovers to a minimum. His work ethic is paying off, as he is number one in the league for assists per turnover (4.37).

When asked about his high assist to low turnover ration, Dellavedova said, “As a point guard, that’s kind of been drilled into me growing up. The ball is the most important thing.”

Playing alongside the veteran leadership of LeBron James and others matched with the competitive spirit between him and Irving has taken his game to a whole new level. It is evident he is far more comfortable bringing the ball up the floor, running the offense, and is being more aggressive and attacking the rim when defenders are expecting him to dish the ball. He has stepped up in a role that isn’t even his, and is helping the team win games despite dealing with a sore leg himself while the Cavs are running on a short roster. He’s the ultimate teammate.

Dellavedova is a true competitor, and the one thing to remember with him is this; he may not be the biggest, fastest, most athletic or skilled player on the floor, but he will outwork anyone on any given night. Some nights, like all, he will make mistakes, but he will always give you everything he has. Some of the biggest moments in a game will never be found in a box score, and I’d bet you’ll see quite a few gems from Delly this season. He has solidified himself a spot in the rotation, and has proven he can play at this level.

“He’s simply a winner,” Blatt said about Dellavedova after Monday’s win.

“He plays to win.”

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