Since the LeBron James era, it was hard for the Cleveland Cavaliers to stay competitive. Now, they have finally stitched a formidable core together. Centered around the ravishing Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland won their first playoff series since 2018 last season. Hence, it warranted some key extensions, one of which included Evan Mobley.

Since being a rookie, Mobley impressed the NBA world with his monstrous defensive plays. Now, he stands as the defensive anchor for the team that ranks among the best in the league. A reward of which was a lucrative contract extension. If you want to know the details about the same, we will unravel those right here.

What is Evam Mobley’s contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers

After an All-Defensive first-team selection two seasons ago, the Cleveland Cavaliers had all the confidence in Mobley. In the same offseason that they roped Mitchell to an extension, they also decided to reward the elite shot-blocker with a rookie max. On July 23rd, 2024, the Cavaliers announced his extension, a lucrative five-year $224 million deal.

“We are thrilled to sign Evan to a long-term extension, solidifying his place as a cornerstone of our franchise. Evan has quickly established himself as one of the premier defensive players in the league, and we’ve only scratched the surface of his overall potential. Since drafting him, he only knows winning basketball and has proven to be pivotal to our team’s success. His exceptional work ethic, versatility, and commitment to excellence both on and off the court truly embody what it means to be a Cleveland Cavalier,” said Koby Alman, the President of Basketball Operations. 

The entire sum, specifically $224,238,150 is guaranteed and kicks in from the 2025-26 season. Evan Mobley will stand to make an average of $44 million per season. However, the contract has vast potential. Filled with various incentives, the former DPOY candidate can make as much as $269 million. 

Which draft class does Evan Mobley belong to?

The Cavaliers center belongs to the famous draft class of 2021. Why special? Four players from the draft have earned a five-year max contract, with Mobley being the last. Before him, Pistons’ Cade Cunningham, Magic’s Franz Magner, and Raptors’ Scottie Barnes all earned themselves a max rookie extension.

While Mobley may have arrived late to the party, it came with an explosion unlike no other. After being a DPOY candidate, his averages rapidly improved in his third season. While not eligible for any awards, Mobley averaged 15.7 points and 9.4 rebounds on a career-high 58% shooting.

In addition, he also reinvented himself by adding a consistent three-point shot to his arsenal. This season, the hard work to develop a perimeter game has become a key factor in the Cavaliers’ 31-4 start. He is shooting a blistering 41.8% this year, allowing Kenny Atkinson to deploy him as a stretch forward when needed.

For someone who signed a four-year $36 million extension as a rookie, Evan Mobley had deserved all the plaudits that came his way. He is a defensive juggernaut who has displayed regular offensive improvements. Now embodying the winning culture in Cleveland, the franchise will hope their core can continue to deliver results and find postseason success once again.