The Cleveland Cavaliers have garnered limited buzz around the NBA despite many early offseason predictions of major changes or trades.
After two seasons with their core group of Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, Darius Garland, and Jarrett Allen, some commentators raised concerns about the quartet’s long-term success. The team’s offensive struggles, stemming from having two undersized guards and two big men without reliable shooting, were evident during last season’s playoffs, where the Cavs’ lack of offensive variety became a significant challenge.
Over the summer, speculation grew that the Cavaliers might break up their core, with rumors suggesting that Garland and Allen were trade candidates. However, the Cavs quickly dismissed these reports, keeping their main players intact. Allen signed a max contract extension, and the team refused trade offers for Garland. Ultimately, Cleveland stuck with its roster, making only one addition by drafting rookie Jaylon Tyson.
Critics have questioned the Cavaliers’ strategy, particularly with teams like the New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers making bold moves to challenge the reigning Eastern Conference champion Boston Celtics. While the Knicks and Sixers pursued All-Star talent, Cleveland opted for internal development, with new head coach Kenny Atkinson leading the charge.
In recent season predictions, the Cavaliers have received positive attention. Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus projected the Cavs to finish with a 54-28 record, ranking them third in the Eastern Conference behind the Celtics and Knicks. Pincus highlighted the team’s resilience through injuries last season and emphasized that if they stay healthy, they could remain one of the conference’s top teams. Mitchell’s contract extension should also eliminate distractions from last year.
A third-place finish would secure the Cavaliers their third straight postseason with homecourt advantage, a step up from their previous fourth-place finishes. After being eliminated by the Celtics in five games in the second round last season, the Cavs are aiming for a deeper playoff run this year, with the playoffs being their primary focus.
Pincus also praised the Cavs’ postseason potential, predicting they could reach the Eastern Conference Finals and suggesting they might win two or even three playoff rounds. For Cleveland to meet these expectations, the team will need to build on their current success, with Atkinson’s offense unlocking more of the roster’s potential. Mobley’s development under Atkinson will be key, as the coach’s player development expertise could help Mobley reach the next level in his fourth season.
As the Cavaliers enter the season, they face stiff competition from a loaded Eastern Conference, with the Celtics looking to repeat their dominance and the Knicks striving to make their first Finals appearance in over two decades.
