The Cleveland Cavaliers have signed G League standout Norchad Omier to a two-way deal. The organization has released 26-year-old wing Riley Minix in order to do so.
Omier previously had agreed to join the Minnesota Timberwolves but has reportedly changed his mind and plans on signing with the Cavaliers instead.
Cleveland’s developmental league has done a fine job in recent years. Sam Merrill, Craig Porter Jr. and Nae’Qwan Tomlin are recent examples of players who have climbed the ranks to sign standard contracts and play rotational minutes in the NBA.
Omier will look to follow the same path. He joins Cleveland’s other two-way prospects, Ernest Udeh Jr. and Tristan Enaruna.
Minix, who signed a two-way deal with the Cavs in February of this year. The lanky forward never found his outside shot in limited opportunities with Cleveland.
The Cavs have a need for someone like Omier. Now more than ever. Bulky forwards don’t grow on trees, apparently, and the Cavs would be thrilled to have another player rapidly graduate from the G League to the NBA this season.
All of this is easier said than done. Omier is not a polished player and isn’t a threat to shoot from the perimeter. The 6’7” forward shot 20% from deep in 11 games with the Charge last season. But he has the size and athleticism to fill a momentary need for the Cavaliers — who are dealing with various injuries to a roster that already lacked wing depth.
Omier will have an opportunity now to continue proving himself in the G League, with a chance of earning minutes at the NBA level. This is what every prospect in his position is striving for. It’s clear that he likes his chances in Cleveland, considering he backed out of a commitment with Minnesota to be here. The same can be said for the Cavs, who swiftly opened a two-way spot to get him.
The Cavs play two games at home this weekend. First, against the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday. Then, the New York Knicks on Saturday. We’ll see if any of the two-way guys get a chance to play.
