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In a new series for Right Down Euclid, readers can submit their questions about anything related to Cleveland sports and we'll answer them to the best of our ability. So, with that said, today Right Down Euclid will answer your questions, and hopefully more, on this edition of the weekly mailbag.
But, before we get started, a little housekeeping note – on May 26, Right Down Euclid is partnering with Platform Beer Co. to have the first Right Down Euclid Community Happy Hour! It'll be from 3 p.m. EST to 6 p.m. EST and all are welcome to come! Plus, for the first 50 people that arrive, drinks are on Platform!
Register here via Facebook – looking forward to meeting some of you there and celebrating the community that makes this possible!
With that said, let's answer this week's burning questions. We've got some good ones.
Hey, Evan. You and Chris have been going back and forth on draft ideas for the Cavs on the show. It's clear what you think they should do in the first round but, what about in the second? – Josh T.
This is a tough question. Premium subscribers are aware of some players the Cavaliers like in this year's upcoming draft. But, when it comes to the second round, where Cleveland has two picks, there are a few different avenues they could pursue.
On one hand, they could always package those picks, along with the contracts of someone like Lauri Markkanen or Caris LeVert, along with a future first, to get a player that could provide more of an immediate impact. Sources say that Detroit's Jerami Grant could be a realistic trade target this summer. It just depends on whether or not the Cavaliers are willing to sweeten the pot compensation-wise. That's where those two-second rounders could become key – they could be just enough to push a hypothetical trade for Grant over the finish line.
But, on the other hand, Cleveland does have a need on the perimeter. President of Basketball Operations Koby Altman made it clear during his exit interviews that the team needs length, athleticism and shooting. That, of course, screams wing. Sure, you can grab one in the first round. But, you may want to have as many bites at the apple as possible and grab another one in the second round as well – especially if the Cavaliers believe in their internal player development as they typically do.
So, that's the current conundrum Cleveland is facing in regards to the second round. The same could be said for the first-round pick if it becomes available. Personally, I wouldn't give it up for Grant but, if the Pistons are willing to negotiate with a team within their division, it would be remiss of the Cavaliers to not strike them up on an offer.
Twitter
See @CAVS4MVP's post on Twitter.
twitter.com/CAVS4MVP
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After suffering a gruesome ankle injury last season, it's encouraging and inspiring to see Josh Naylor return to the field for the Guardians. Feel-good stories are all well and good and will always go hand in hand with sports. But, it is fair to wonder if Naylor has a long-term future in Cleveland after the gruesome leg injury he suffered last year.
Sure, it's early but it seems like Naylor's return is more than just a Netflix comedy exclusive with Kevin James starring as Terry Francona. In 57 appearances, Naylor has two home runs, seven runs, 12 RBI's and 19 hits. That's good for a batting average of .333 and an on-base percentage of 35.6%. Despite it being a smaller sample size, those numbers are much improved compared to last season for Naylor.
No matter what, the Guardians need offensive help at both corner outfield positions. For now, it appears that they're getting that and then some from Naylor. More than anything, you probably need a larger sample size production-wise from him to figure out his overall long-term fit. But, with a player of his pedigree, it feels safe to assume he's part of the future with the Guardians, regardless of his prior injury.
Hey, Evan! I saw you chatting up with the Ultimate Cleveland Sports show on Twitter! Are you joining them? – Frank P.
Well, it looks like the cat is out of the bag. Yes, my co-host Chris Manning and I will be featured panelists on the Ultimate Cleveland Sports Show that's being hosted by Cleveland personalities Adam The Bull, Jay Crawford, Mike Polk, Brad Sellers, Garrett Bush and so much more.
The plan is to have one of us on once a week to talk all things Cavaliers on both YouTube and WKYC. Thankfully, my suit still fits me after the pandemic.
Evan – do you think the Browns are done making move? – Ralph E.
When I broke down the moves the Browns made during the 2022 NFL Draft, it was clear that Cleveland still needed to add a little more depth to round things out.
Despite sending Troy Hill to the Los Angeles Rams and drafting Martin Emmerson, it wouldn't hurt for Cleveland to add a veteran defensive back. It's no secret that the AFC is loaded with legitimate passing talent and with how green some players on Cleveland's roster are – adding an adult to the room could help. Names like A.J. Bouye, Chris Harris Jr. and Jaquiski Tartt should all be at the top of the list for the Browns. Hell, maybe even Joe Haden as well for a little shot of nostalgia too. There are options out there but they need to add some depth in the secondary.
Other than that, Cleveland should not settle on what they have in terms of wide receiver and defensive end depth. Will Fuller IV, mostly because of his price tag and relationship with Deshaun Watson, makes a ton of sense at wideout. Ditto for Jarvis Landry as well. On the defensive line, meanwhile, all signs point to Jadeveon Clowney returning to Cleveland. After a great year with the Browns last year next to Myles Garrett, it would make sense for Clowney to cash in in free agency and call Cleveland his permanent home.
Evan Dammarell is a sports journalist covering all things Cleveland right off the shores of Lake Erie. Follow him on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram. Email him at evan@downeuclid.com. Did you enjoy this edition of Right Down Euclid? You can get it in your inbox two to three times a week by subscribing here. All it takes is either your Facebook account or email address!