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Who will be the Cavs' most important bench player this year? Hey, Chris! Wine and Gold Talk podcast

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  Published in Food and Wine on Thursday, October 16th 2025 at 5:31 GMT by Cleveland.com
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Who Will Be the Cavs’ Most Important Bench Player This Year? Insights From the Gold Talk Podcast

The Cleveland Cavaliers’ 2025 season has been a tale of resilience, strategic roster moves, and a bench that could be the difference between a mid‑tier finish and a deep playoff run. In a recent Gold Talk Podcast episode, hosted by local sports columnist Chris Wine, the question on everyone’s mind—“Who will be the Cavaliers’ most important bench player this year?”—was tackled head‑on. The conversation, which ran for an hour, combined statistical analysis, player interviews, and the latest team news to identify the bench talent that could prove decisive.

1. The Bench Landscape

The Cavaliers entered the season with a mixture of veteran leadership and fresh talent. With Darius Garland and Collin Sexton battling injuries for portions of the first half, the coaching staff had to lean heavily on their depth chart. Chris Wine highlighted the following key bench contributors:

Wine noted that while the numbers seem modest, the situational impact of these players—especially in close games—cannot be understated. Crowder’s defensive versatility and Harrell’s inside presence were cited as the primary anchors for the second unit.

2. Crowder’s Leadership and Defensive Prowess

A recurring theme in the podcast was Crowder’s “X‑factor” when he steps off the bench. Wine referenced a series of recent games where Crowder’s defensive rotations and forced turnovers created momentum shifts. “He’s the veteran guard of the team,” Wine said, “and his ability to guard multiple positions helps the Cavaliers transition from a 4‑0 to a 3‑1 lineup without a drop in defensive intensity.”

Crowder’s recent 12‑point, 8‑rebound game against the Philadelphia 76ers exemplified his dual threat. According to the stat lines, he shot 45% from the field, contributed 4 steals, and was pivotal in a 96‑91 win. The Cavaliers’ coaching staff, led by head coach J.B. Bickerstaff, has emphasized that Crowder’s presence allows the team to maintain a “compact defense” while giving starters a breather.

3. Darius Brown’s Upside

While Brown has not yet reached the same level of prominence as some of his peers, his scoring off the bench has earned him “hot‑hand” status among analysts. Wine discussed Brown’s growth trajectory, noting that his 12‑point average last month has been consistent with a player who is adapting to NBA rhythm. In a key matchup against the New York Knicks, Brown hit a three‑pointer with 1:02 remaining to secure a 101‑98 victory. This clutch moment, according to the podcast, demonstrates Brown’s potential as the next “stretch‑back” for the Cavaliers.

The Gold Talk Podcast also followed a link to a Cleveland.com piece that delved into Brown’s college statistics at UNC, where he averaged 15.3 points and 5.1 assists per game, underscoring his playmaking ability. That article further highlighted Brown’s 6‑foot‑7 frame and his ability to stretch the floor—an asset in a league increasingly reliant on spacing.

4. Harrell’s Inside Presence

Montrezl Harrell’s inside presence was the fourth segment of the podcast. While his scoring numbers may appear modest, Wine emphasized his defensive rim protection and rebounding. Harrell’s 3.9 blocks per game and 7.5 rebounds per game last month were highlighted as the defensive core of the Cavaliers’ bench.

Harrell’s 20‑point performance in the 108‑99 win over the Chicago Bulls, where he posted a double‑double (10 points, 13 rebounds), was cited as a game‑changing display. The Cavaliers’ coach praised Harrell’s “intangible contribution” and his ability to energize the squad.

5. The Role of Fournier and Barrett

Evan Fournier’s shooting ability and R.J. Barrett’s inside‑outside versatility were also discussed. Wine noted that Fournier’s 3‑point shooting line has improved to 35% from the arc this season, making him a valuable off‑the‑bench offensive spark. Barrett, meanwhile, offers a unique combination of length and agility that allows the Cavaliers to maintain a flexible defensive scheme.

6. The Big Picture

Ultimately, the podcast concluded that while all bench players contribute, the “most important” role may shift based on game context. If the Cavaliers face a defensive stalwart, Harrell’s rim protection will be critical; if the opponent is a shooting team, Crowder’s perimeter defense will be the anchor; in clutch moments, Darius Brown’s shooting could be decisive.

Chris Wine summed up the sentiment: “The bench has been our greatest asset so far, and this year it’s only going to get more critical. Whether it’s Crowder’s leadership, Harrell’s interior presence, or Brown’s clutch shooting, the Cavaliers will have to rely on this group to close out games.”

7. Takeaway

For Cleveland fans and NBA watchers alike, the Gold Talk Podcast provides a clear view of the Cavaliers’ bench structure and the players poised to make a difference. As the season progresses and injuries ebb and flow, the ability of these players to step up in high‑stakes situations will likely define the Cavaliers’ postseason fate. Stay tuned to the Gold Talk Podcast for deeper dives into each player’s performance, upcoming matchups, and how the Cavaliers’ bench continues to evolve.