Carmelo Anthony and Tracy McGrady are expecting a historic year from Evan Mobley. On the latest episode of 7PM in Brooklyn, the NBA legends said the Cavaliers forward could enter the MVP conversation this season, praising his size, skill, and two-way impact as reasons why he’s ready to take the next step.
“I think he can be an MVP candidate because I think the Cavs are going to be at the top of the Eastern Conference,” said McGrady on Peacock. “I think he’s going to take another leap offensively to pair that with great defensive prowess. I think you can put him in the MVP discussion this year. He’s put on some weight and as we’ve seen in those clips, I want to see him putting more pressure on the defense. He’s tall, lanky, high shot release, and when he steps out and knocks down that clip from beyond the arc, man…”
Mobley, 24, made his first All-Star team last season but expectations have been set higher for the 2025-26 season. As a young big man with major potential, Carmelo Anthony says the stage is set for Mobley to have a breakout season that nobody will forget.
“MVPs got to be loud, something that’s clear,” Anthony added. “But I do believe Mobley has an opportunity to be an MVP candidate. With that team, what they’re capable of doing — if he takes that next step and he develops like we think he will, he’s an MVP candidate.”
On paper, Evan Mobley has all the tools he needs to take that next step in his development. At 6’11” and 215 pounds, he’s an ideal size for his position and has proven himself as a valuable two-way big man. Last season, he won the Defensive Player of the Year award with averages of 18.5 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game on 55.7% shooting. His play helped the Cavs secure the best record in the East (64-18) and they entered the playoffs with a +9.5 point differential.
Despite the regular-season dominance, the Cavaliers fell apart in the playoffs and lost to the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. It was a major letdown for the Cavaliers and the second straight season they failed to meet expectations.
Going into this season, the Cavaliers have mostly the same roster, save for a few new additions. One of them is veteran point guard Lonzo Ball, who has reportedly made a strong impression in his team’s preseason minicamp. They also signed center Thomas Bryant, who will add depth and versatility to the frontcourt.
Ultimately, the Cavs are loaded with talent in the form of Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, and Jarrett Allen. They have the pieces they need to win it all, but they still need that one player to step up and elevate his game to another level. Melo and T-Mac think Mobley is that guy, and only time will tell if they’re right.
