Israeli Prospect Noam Yaacov Nears NBA Dream With Cleveland

Israeli basketball player Noam Yaacov, considered one of the most promising talents from the recent draft, has signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers. This contract is a step toward his goal of playing in the NBA, though his immediate path is expected to be in the G League.

The Cavaliers currently have 14 guaranteed contracts, and the addition of Mario Hezonja is also possible. Yaacov's chances of making the main roster are slim, as the Exhibit 10 contract is often a precursor to playing in the G League, with the potential for a two-way or 10-day contract with Cleveland later. The team's starting point guard is James Harden, who has shown surprising durability. Behind him are rookie Tyrese Proctor and Craig Porter Jr., who emerged as a significant player last season.

Cleveland's star player emphasized the team's defensive identity. Yaacov, described as a more physical player than Porter and potentially more defensively committed than Harden, might find an advantage here. However, Hezonja is currently favored to be the 15th player on the roster. The Cavaliers' salary cap situation might influence their decision regarding Hezonja, who would likely command a higher salary than Yaacov even on a standard contract.

Yaacov was drafted by the Cavaliers' G League affiliate in the international draft last year, granting them his rights in the developmental league. A previous plan for him to play college basketball in Utah fell through due to NCAA regulations. He trained with Cleveland prior to the draft, alongside L.J. Johnson. The team's G League team, led by Liron Pe'anan, has a track record of developing successful players, suggesting they believe Yaacov could be the next.

If Yaacov signs, it will likely be a two-way contract, offering a salary of $636,000 per season and allowing him to play up to 50 regular-season games. Two-way contracts provide roster flexibility, and players can transition to standard contracts. Cleveland currently has the maximum three players on two-way deals, but contract types can be converted. A 10-day contract would pay him $73,000, with teams able to sign players to two consecutive 10-day contracts.

While Yaacov showed NBA prospect potential last year, he is still considered a developing player. His physicality and driving ability, along with increased confidence from his strong season in Belgium, are assets. Westchester Knicks have shown interest, and other G League or NBA development teams may follow. The G League emphasizes factors beyond statistics, such as unselfishness, energy, and team contribution, which could be key for Yaacov's path to the NBA.