Cavaliers Bring Akron Native Larry Nance Jr. Back Home in Free Agency

The Cleveland Cavaliers are making some exciting moves, and guess who’s back? None other than Akron’s own Larry Nance Jr.! The veteran forward is returning to the Cavaliers in free agency, marking his second run with the squad. After a stint with the Atlanta Hawks, the 32-year-old is set to bring his talent back to his roots, providing some much-needed front-court depth for new coach Kenny Atkinson.

Nance Jr. is no stranger to the Cavs, having played a crucial role from 2018 to 2021, even contributing to their 2018 NBA Finals appearance. Since then, he’s evolved into a reliable stretch forward, and his homecoming is a smart play by the Cavaliers. His return helps fill the gap left by Isaac Okoro, who was part of a trade that brought Lonzo Ball to Cleveland.

Speaking of strategic plays, there’s buzz about some interesting lineup tweaks. A long-time insider even suggested moving Jarrett Allen to the bench as a sixth man, using the “Hot Rod Williams” blueprint. Imagine a powerful second-unit front court featuring both Allen and Nance—that’s a lot of floor spacing and athleticism!

And let’s talk about Lonzo Ball. His arrival is a potential game-changer, bringing high-level defense, playmaking, and perimeter shooting to the second unit, stepping in for Ty Jerome. However, it’s not without its risks; Ball’s history with knee injuries means staying healthy will be key for the team’s success.

It’s an exciting time for the Cavaliers as they reshape their roster with these impactful moves, aiming for a strong season ahead.