NEW ORLEANS — After a blend of stifling defense in a 98-91 home loss to the Washington Wizards, Cleveland Cavaliers combo guard Matthew Dellavedova earned his first start on the road against the New Orleans Pelicans.
Dellevedova, a 6’4 200-pound Australian point guard, stifled and frustrated Wizards shooting guard Bradley Beal in the second half, and nearly helped bring the Cavaliers back from a 27-point deficit, thanks to his relentless hustle and energy. Cavs head coach, Mike Brown, announced the move during Cleveland’s morning shootaround, and praised the former the former St Mary’s standout for being the only player that competed during the game.
In six games, Dellavedova has averaged 2.8 points, 1.7 rebounds and one assist per game.
In Dellavedova, Cleveland gets a tough and hard-nosed defensive stalwart that can help guard out on the perimeter and act more as a facilitator on offense in setting up more opportunities.
While not a scorer like Jarrett Jack, C.J. Miles or Dion Waiters, “Delly”—as he is now being called by Cavs fans—gives Cleveland some much-needed energy on defense and a spark on offense in hustling for loose balls and rebounds.
If Dellavedova continues his strong play on defense for the Cavs, this could turn out to be a shrewd move down the line for Cleveland.
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