The upper-echelon stars of basketball all showed out during the Paris Olympics. From Nikola Jokic’s all-round exploits to Victor Wembanyama’s Finals coming out, it set up a tantalizing NBA season to come. But amidst the battle of the reputed players, a 28-year-old French forward nearly stole the show. Guerschon Yabusele led the hosts in scoring in the knockout stages, and could now ring NBA bells after his splendid display.

Yabusele was put into the starting five during the latter phase, replacing Rudy Gobert. And he made the most of his opportunity. His vigor and explosiveness rattled oppositions. Furthermore, he even got a highlight dunk over LeBron James, setting the stage for his “second chance” which the Real Madrid man has long desired. And it seems the Cleveland Cavaliers might reserve a spot for him with the influence of head coach Kenny Atkinson.

Evan Dammarell of Clutch Points reported that the Cavaliers could consult Atkinson to fill the 14th spot on their roster. The newly appointed Cavs head coach was present in Paris as a France assistant coach. Hence, he has watched Yabusele’s growth and nurturing right in front of his eyes. According to Dammarell, the Cavaliers need a forward to play besides Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. And Guerschon Yabusele could fit the mold perfectly.

In six games at the Paris Olympics, the 28-year-old bruising forward averaged 14 points per game. But that accounts for his minimal participation in the group stage. Since becoming a starter, Yabusele averaged nearly 20 points per game, including being the second-leading scorer for the French in the Finals against the mighty Team USA.

An NBA return for Yabusele comes with a sacrifice

Currently, Guerschon Yabusele is under contract with Real Madrid of the EuroLeague. In his stint with the franchise, he has become a vital part of their squad averaging 9.7 points last season. Under his contract agreement, Yabusele has a $2.5 million NBA buyout. Madrid increased the value of his exit only prior to the Paris Olympics, foreseeing his positive performances.

Here’s the tricky part. An NBA team can only pay $850,000 for a player buyout from an international league. Hence, for Guerschon Yabusele to make his desired NBA return, he will have to forego a considerable sum of $1.65 million. Furthermore, this doesn’t warrant an NBA contract, but rather only gives him a shot at making a roster.

But that’s all he wants, another chance. As a 28-year-old coming off one of his best career performances, Yabusele might look to be courageous and leap into an NBA opportunity. And by the looks of it, he has a good chance of setting his feet with the Cleveland Cavaliers, the former organization of LeBron James.

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Do you think the tenacious 6’8″ forward will get his ‘second opportunity’ this season? Let us know your views in the comments below.