Evan Mobley’s off-season work has caught the attention of his trainer, Olin Simplis, who believes the Cavaliers forward has the potential to be among the NBA’s top five players for the remainder of his career. Simplis highlighted Mobley’s growth after his first All-Star selection and Defensive Player of the Year award in 2024–25.
Simplis worked with Mobley this summer to enhance his ball-handling, downhill drives, and assertiveness on the court. Drills included stationary ball-handling with heavy balls, pick-and-roll simulations, and 1-on-2 matchups to improve his ability to create under pressure.
“Evan has to be more vocal and more visible without disrupting team chemistry,” Simplis told Mark Medina of RG. “He’s unselfish, but he also needs to remind everyone that he’s out there and fully utilize his gifts offensively and defensively.”
During scrimmages, Mobley faced high-level competition including Patrick Williams, Trendan Watford, and Klay Thompson, as well as fellow pros and G League players. Simplis noted that Mobley’s efficiency and level of force impressed him, particularly in executing counters when defenders cut off his path.
Simplis compared Mobley to a blend of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kevin Garnett, citing his defensive instincts, length, athleticism, and versatility. He added that Mobley’s skill set allows him to create opportunities from both ends of the floor in a way that few players can.
Mobley’s breakout 2024–25 season included a career-high 41 points, 10 rebounds, three blocks, and six three-pointers against the Charlotte Hornets, making him the second player under 25 after Kevin Durant to record those numbers in a single game. He also finished the season as the Cavaliers’ first-ever Defensive Player of the Year and earned his first All-NBA Second Team selection.
Simplis emphasized that Mobley’s leadership has also grown off the court, citing a minicamp in Los Angeles where he organized workouts, strength sessions, and team dinners. “He’s taking control of his growth, studying what he needs to improve, and executing consistently,” Simplis said.
Looking ahead, Mobley’s trainer sees a path to MVP-level recognition. “I honestly think this kid can be in the top five for the rest of his life while he’s in the NBA starting today,” Simplis said. “That’s my goal—to continuously bring that out of him.”
