The Best Cleveland Cavaliers of All Time

Ranker NBA
Updated May 2, 2024 95.2K views 95 items
Ranked By
56.4K votes
6.8K voters
32 reranks
Voting Rules
Please vote for the players based only on their time with the Cavaliers
Latest additions: Evan Mobley, Donovan Mitchell, Jarrett Allen
Most divisive: Dion Waiters
Over 6.8K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Greatest Cavs of All Time

A list of the best Cleveland Cavaliers of all time. The Cleveland Cavaliers, much like the rest of the sports teams in Cleveland's history, are a snakebitten franchise. This isn't because they haven't had any good players, in fact the opposite holds true. LeBron James is one of the greatest players today and one of the greatest players of all time. Say what you want about King James, the fact is that when he was with Cleveland, the team was one of the best in the league. James wasn't able to push Cleveland over the top though. With the best player of his generation, the Cavs only had one NBA Finals berth along with the several other brutal early exits, most notably in 2009 and 2010. Zydrunas Ilgauskas is another all time Cavs great that was one that team, but LeBron was the team's superstar player, and the guy that many teams dream of having.

Many of the Cavs best players have been steady and been on multiple All Star teams. But their problem is that their greatest players have lost to teams that have had even better players. No one would question that the great Cavalier teams of the late 1980s and early 1990s didn't have talent. With Mark Price running the point and Brad Daugherty posting up down low, these Cavs teams had solid talent, but their best players couldn't get the team to the NBA Finals.

This is a list of the best Cleveland Cavaliers of all time. If you see someone that is missing from this list, feel free to add him. Vote or rerank this list so it can accurately reflect who you think is the greatest Cavaliers player in team history. 
  • LeBron James
    1

    LeBron James

    Age: 39
    4,896 votes

    Undoubtedly, the most iconic and transformative figure in Cleveland Cavaliers history, LeBron James single-handedly revived a struggling franchise and delivered the city its first NBA championship - ending a 52-year major-league title drought. Throughout his two stints with the Cavs, LeBron displayed an unparalleled combination of size, speed, and court vision, often shouldering a Herculean offensive load while remaining an elite defender. The Chosen One's impact on the game transcends his sensational on-court performances, as he used his platform to champion social justice and elevate the league's global appeal.

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  • Kyrie Irving
    2

    Kyrie Irving

    Age: 32
    4,031 votes

    A dazzling ball-handler with a flair for the dramatic, Kyrie Irving's time in Cleveland saw him emerge as one of the most clutch and electrifying point guards in the league. Partnering with LeBron James, he played a pivotal role in the Cavaliers' historic 2016 NBA Championship run, hitting the game-winning three-pointer in Game 7 to secure the title. Though his tenure in Cleveland was somewhat shortened by a trade request, the smooth scoring and eye-popping dribble moves Irving brought to the city remain forever etched in the team's lore.

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  • Mark Price
    3

    Mark Price

    Age: 60
    2,945 votes

    Mark Price's incredible marksmanship, deft passing, and high basketball IQ established him as the prototypical modern point guard long before the league fully embraced the three-point revolution. He was a cornerstone of the successful Cavs teams of the late 80s and early 90s, earning four All-Star appearances and frequently contending for the league's assist title. Price set the standard for floor generals in Cleveland and remains an enduring symbol of the team's proud past.

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  • Kevin Love
    4

    Kevin Love

    Age: 35
    2,807 votes

    Acquired in a blockbuster trade, Kevin Love evolved his game to fit seamlessly into the Cavaliers' Big Three alongside LeBron James and Kyrie Irving during their multiple Finals runs. The versatile power forward expanded his range beyond the arc while maintaining his status as an elite rebounder, proving invaluable to the team's spacing and offensive flow. Love's ability to adapt and contribute on both ends of the court was instrumental in Cleveland securing its first NBA championship in 2016.

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  • Larry Nance
    5

    Larry Nance

    Age: 65
    2,368 votes

    An electrifying high-flyer with a relentless motor, Larry Nance brought unparalleled athleticism and excitement to the Cavaliers' frontcourt during the late '80s and early '90s. Known for his gravity-defying dunks and tenacious defense, Nance's athletic prowess made him an invaluable asset to the team's success and endeared him to fans throughout his career. His enduring legacy within the organization is evident through his son, Larry Nance Jr., who now proudly dons his father's jersey for the Cavs.

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  • Brad Daugherty
    6

    Brad Daugherty

    Age: 58
    2,065 votes

    As the Cavalier's all-time leading scorer and rebounder, Brad Daugherty anchored the team for nearly a decade with his dominant inside presence and excellent passing skills. The consummate "gentle giant," he formed the core of the successful Cavs squads of the late '80s and early '90s alongside Mark Price and Larry Nance. Daugherty's impact on the franchise cannot be understated, and his early retirement due to injury remains one of the biggest "what ifs" in team history.

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  • Žydrūnas Ilgauskas
    7

    Žydrūnas Ilgauskas

    Age: 48
    2,075 votes

    This Lithuanian-born center immediately endeared himself to the Cleveland faithful with his hard work, gritty play, and perseverance through numerous injuries. The 7'3'' Ilgauskas was a force inside, showcasing a soft touch around the rim and a reliable mid-range game that consistently gave opposing defenses headaches. Z's loyalty, longevity, and class made him a fan favorite and a pillar of the Cavs organization during some tumultuous times.

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  • Austin Carr
    8

    Austin Carr

    Age: 76
    1,040 votes

    A prolific scorer with a silky-smooth jump shot and a deadly first step, Austin Carr - affectionately known as "Mr. Cavalier" - set numerous scoring records during his nine-year tenure with the team. As the Cavs' first-ever draft pick in 1971, Carr's star power helped establish the expansion team's identity and lay the foundation for future success. Today, Carr continues to play an integral role with the organization, providing colorful commentary as the team's longtime television analyst.

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  • Shawn Kemp
    9

    Shawn Kemp

    Age: 54
    1,724 votes

    While Kemp's time in Cleveland may have been brief, the Reign Man's impact on the court was felt immediately. Acquired in a blockbuster trade, Kemp brought his signature high-flying dunks, ferocious demeanor, and infectious energy to the Cavs lineup in the late '90s, providing a much-needed jolt to the franchise. Despite personal setbacks cutting his time in Cleveland short, Kemp remains a vivid emblem of a bygone era.

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  • World B. Free
    10

    World B. Free

    Age: 70
    1,177 votes

    A charismatic and unapologetically flashy scorer, World B. Free lit up scoreboards during his three-year stint with the Cavaliers in the early '80s. With a penchant for dazzling drives and deep threes, he epitomized the era's freewheeling offensive mindset and provided Cleveland fans with countless memorable performances. Though his tenure with the team was relatively short, Free's influence on the offensive explosion that would come to define the modern game is undeniable.

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  • Darius Garland
    11

    Already showing signs of becoming one of the team's brightest young stars, Darius Garland's sharpshooting and crafty playmaking have turned heads in his short time with the Cavaliers. As a key part of the Cavs' rebuilding plan, Garland's continued development and potential to form a dynamic backcourt duo with fellow young guard Collin Sexton have fans eagerly anticipating the future. With his tantalizing skillset and sky-high potential, Garland could soon solidify himself as one of the franchise's all-time greats.

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  • J.R. Smith
    12

    J.R. Smith

    Age: 38
    1,690 votes

    A mercurial and enigmatic figure, J.R. Smith brought instant offense and streaky shooting to the Cavaliers during their championship window. Acquired midseason in 2015, Smith's timely shot-making and unwavering confidence played a crucial role in the team's title run the following year. While his time in Cleveland was filled with both thrilling highs and perplexing lows, "Swish" remains an indelible part of the most successful era in Cavaliers history.

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  • John "Hot Rod" Williams
    13

    John "Hot Rod" Williams

    Age: 61
    950 votes

    The epitome of a blue-collar workhorse, John "Hot Rod" Williams provided invaluable interior defense and rebounding off the bench for some highly successful Cavaliers teams throughout the late '80s and early '90s. Possessing a relentless motor, uncanny shot-blocking instincts, and a never-back-down attitude, Williams etched his name into the hearts of Cleveland fans with his gritty performances. His spirit and determination remain emblematic of the city's unyielding sports culture.

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  • Ron Harper
    14

    Ron Harper

    Age: 60
    1,200 votes

    A swiss army knife on both ends of the court, Ron Harper displayed a rare combination of size, athleticism, and skill during his tenure with the Cavaliers. A versatile defender and unselfish playmaker, Harper formed a formidable trio alongside Brad Daugherty and Mark Price during the late '80s. Though he would go on to find greater team success elsewhere, Harper's impact on the Cavs' organization and legacy as a selfless two-way star cannot be overlooked.

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  • Shaquille O'Neal
    15

    Shaquille O'Neal

    Age: 52
    2,184 votes

    Though his stint with the Cavaliers was brief, Shaquille O'Neal brought a wealth of experience and championship pedigree to a Cleveland squad hungry for an NBA title. Teaming up with LeBron James, the duo became a formidable inside-outside threat, with Shaq's legendary size and post moves drawing defenses in while James attacked from the perimeter. While they ultimately fell short of a championship, Shaq's presence in Cleveland added a unique chapter to the story of one of the game's all-time greats.

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  • Kyle Korver
    16

    Kyle Korver

    Age: 43
    782 votes

    One of the league's most prolific three-point shooters, Kyle Korver arrived in Cleveland midseason in 2017 and made an immediate impact, helping space the floor for LeBron James and Kyrie Irving during their Finals run. With his textbook shooting stroke and unwavering confidence, Korver consistently knocked down big shots in the clutch, solidifying his status as one of the all-time great sharpshooters. Though his time with the Cavs was short, he played a crucial role during one of the most exciting eras in franchise history.

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  • Nate Thurmond
    17

    Nate Thurmond

    Age: 82
    596 votes

    Although Nate Thurmond's time in Cleveland only lasted for two seasons, the Hall of Fame center left a lasting impression on the franchise. His leadership, defensive prowess, and tenacious rebounding all helped to instill a winning culture within the young Cavs team. To this day, Thurmond's quadruple-double in his Cavs debut remains one of the most legendary individual performances in team history.

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  • Walt Frazier
    18

    Walt Frazier

    Age: 79
    785 votes

    A legendary point guard more often associated with the New York Knicks, Walt Frazier spent the twilight of his career in Cleveland, bringing his smooth style and veteran leadership to a young Cavs team. Even in the later stages of his career, Frazier continued to display his exceptional court vision and knack for scoring, leaving a lasting impression on the organization. Despite the brevity of his stint in Cleveland, Frazier added an element of prestige and class to the franchise during the late '70s.

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  • Richard Jefferson
    19

    Richard Jefferson

    Age: 43
    737 votes

    Known for his high-flying dunks and versatility, Richard Jefferson became a key contributor and respected veteran presence during the Cavaliers' championship-winning 2016 season. His high-energy play and timely scoring off the bench earned him a valuable role on the team, and his leadership inside the locker room was instrumental in shaping Cleveland's championship DNA. Though his tenure with the Cavaliers was brief, Jefferson's impact on and off the court remains etched in the hearts of fans.

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  • Donovan Mitchell
    20

    Donovan Mitchell

    38 votes

    Cleveland Cavaliers: 2022-ongoing

    Donovan Mitchell, an integral part of the Cavaliers' history, showcases a blend of advanced basketball IQ, tremendous defensive strength, and versatile offensive skills. Mitchell's intellect for the game is on full display as he smartly dissects the defensive setups of his rivals, often creating scoring opportunities seemingly out of nothing. Defensively, Mitchell stands out with his agility and swift reactions, routinely disrupting the offensive rhythm of the opposition. His offense, marked by his exceptional shot-making and driving abilities, easily places him among the ranks of the Cavaliers' finest talent.

    Donovan Vernell Mitchell Jr. (born September 7, 1996) is an American professional basketball player for the Cleveland Cavaliers of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He played college basketball for the Louisville Cardinals. He was selected by the Denver Nuggets with the 13th overall pick in the 2017 NBA draft and was traded on draft night to the Utah Jazz. During his rookie season, Mitchell was named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team and won the 2018 Slam Dunk Contest. On March 1, 2018, Mitchell was named as the Western Conference Rookie of the month for the third time that season for games played in February. On April 10, he set a rookie record for most three-pointers in a season with 186 three-pointers during a 119–79 win over the Golden State Warriors. On April 12, at the end of the regular season, Mitchell was named Western Conference Rookie of the Month for March and April.
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  • Lenny Wilkens
    21

    Lenny Wilkens

    Age: 86
    714 votes

    Famed more for his coaching tenure with the Cavaliers, Lenny Wilkens also spent two seasons in Cleveland as a player, where he showcased the steady play and high basketball IQ that would later define his Hall of Fame coaching career. After retiring as a player, Wilkens returned to Cleveland in the late '80s, leading the team to multiple playoff appearances and a conference finals berth, solidifying his reputation as one of the game's great basketball minds. To this day, Wilkens remains a symbol of the franchise's proud history and an enduring reminder of its pursuit of excellence.

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  • Jarrett Allen
    22

    Cleveland Cavaliers: 2021-ongoing

    A luminary in the Cleveland Cavaliers' constellation of stars, Jarrett Allen distinguishes himself through a deep understanding of the game, a rock-solid defense, and an impressive offensive arsenal. Allen's high basketball IQ manifests in the strategic precision with which he navigates the court, outmaneuvering opponents and setting up plays that leave spectators awestruck. His defensive prowess lies in his uncanny ability to block shots and snag rebounds, often thwarting the offensive ambitions of opposing teams. On the offensive front, Allen's efficient scoring ability, whether through crafty layups or decisive dunks, underscores his standing as one of the Cavaliers' key players.

    Jarrett Allen (born April 21, 1998) is an American professional basketball player for the Cleveland Cavaliers of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He played college basketball for the Texas Longhorns. Allen was selected 22nd overall by the Brooklyn Nets in the 2017 NBA draft.
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  • Craig Ehlo
    23

    Craig Ehlo

    Age: 62
    849 votes

    Perhaps best remembered for his gritty defense and clutch shot-making ability, Craig Ehlo was a fan favorite during his seven seasons with the Cavaliers. His never-say-die attitude and willingness to take on any role endeared him to teammates and fans alike while helping elevate the team's competitiveness during the late '80s and early '90s. Today, Ehlo remains synonymous with the spirit of hard work and determination that has come to define Cleveland basketball.

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  • Andre Miller
    24

    Andre Miller

    Age: 48
    784 votes

    A consummate floor general with excellent court vision and a steady scoring touch, Andre Miller spent his first three seasons in the league with the Cavaliers, where he established himself as one of the most promising young point guards in the game. His ability to run an offense and find open teammates set the table for the Cavs during the early 2000s, laying the groundwork for the team's future success. Though his time in Cleveland was relatively brief, Miller's early career performance left a lasting impression on the team's rich point guard tradition.

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  • Campy Russell
    25

    Campy Russell

    Age: 72
    346 votes

    A smooth scorer and tenacious rebounder, Campy Russell became a centerpiece of the Cavaliers' lineup throughout the late '70s and early '80s. Gifted with a versatile inside-out game and a natural feel for putting the ball in the basket, Russell helped keep the Cavs competitive during a transitional period in the team's history. His contributions to the franchise continue today as he serves as a studio analyst, providing thoughtful insights into the game he once played so brilliantly.

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  • Dwyane Wade
    26

    Dwyane Wade

    Age: 42
    389 votes

    Joining forces with longtime friend LeBron James once again, Dwyane Wade's brief stint with the Cavaliers saw him transition to a new role as a savvy veteran leader. Drawing from his wealth of championship experience, Wade provided valuable mentorship and guidance to the team's young core while still contributing timely scoring and playmaking. Although his time in Cleveland was fleeting, Wade's presence demonstrated the organization's commitment to surrounding its stars with proven winners.

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  • Terrell Brandon
    27

    Terrell Brandon

    Age: 53
    770 votes

    During his six seasons with the Cavaliers, Terrell Brandon showcased a mature floor game and scoring aptitude that helped solidify the team's point guard legacy. Known for his quickness, crafty ball-handling, and ability to score from all three levels, Brandon emerged as a steady presence at the helm of Cleveland's offense throughout the '90s. While somewhat overshadowed by other prominent point guards in the team's past, Brandon's contributions to the Cavs' storied lineage should not be forgotten.

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  • Tristan Thompson
    28

    Tristan Thompson

    Age: 33
    1,515 votes

    A tireless worker on the glass and a key contributor during the Cavaliers' championship window, Tristan Thompson established himself as one of the league's premier offensive rebounders while playing crucial minutes alongside LeBron James and Kyrie Irving. Thompson's relentless energy and ability to switch defensively onto guards became invaluable during the team's multiple Finals appearances. Overall, his blue-collar approach and contributions to the Cavs' greatest successes make him an integral part of the team's history.

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  • Ben Wallace
    29

    Ben Wallace

    Age: 49
    395 votes

    Though best known for his time in Detroit, Ben Wallace's brief tenure in Cleveland saw him bring his trademark ferocity and rim protection to a team on the cusp of title contention. The legendary defensive anchor bolstered the Cavs' interior defense and provided a veteran presence during their 2008-09 playoff push. While his time with the team was short-lived, Wallace's unwavering intensity and commitment to defense remain an enduring symbol of his impact on the franchise.

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  • Channing Frye
    30

    Channing Frye

    Age: 40
    441 votes

    A popular locker room presence and consummate veteran, Channing Frye provided a valuable mix of floor-spacing and comedic relief during his stint with the Cavaliers. As a key bench contributor during the team's 2016 championship run, Frye's ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting created matchup nightmares for opponents. Off the court, his candid humor endeared him to fans and teammates alike, making him a beloved figure in Cleveland sports lore.

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