The Cleveland Cavaliers have defied expectations this season, proving doubters wrong in three key areas. Despite being expected to make significant changes to their roster and coaching staff, the Cavs stuck with their core players, extending Evan Mobley, Donovan Mitchell, and Jarrett Allen. The team’s only major change was the hiring of Kenny Atkinson as head coach, who brought a veteran staff of assistants.
Under Atkinson, the Cavaliers have undergone a significant transformation. The team’s offense has become one of the best in the league, scoring 121.9 points per game and shooting 38.3% from three-point range. The Cavs’ bench production has also improved, ranking eighth in bench points per game. This is a notable departure from last season, when the team’s bench production was one of the worst in the playoffs.
The Cavaliers’ backcourt duo of Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell has been a key factor in the team’s success. Despite criticism about their undersized lineup, the duo has worked well together, achieving a 9.5 net rating in 1,131 minutes together. Both players have averaged over 20 points per game in career-low minutes per night, with Garland shooting 40.1% from deep and becoming an elite clutch-time contributor.
Mitchell has exemplified team-first leadership, accepting lower counting stats as his minutes per game have diminished in favor of Atkinson’s philosophy. Both guards have also shown improved defensive intensity, with Garland using his footwork and core strength to stay in front of his assignment, and Mitchell utilizing his 6’11” wingspan to disrupt shots and intercept passes.
The Cavaliers have also demonstrated their ability to win against top teams, sweeping 17 season series, including the New York Knicks, Milwaukee Bucks, Denver Nuggets, and Los Angeles Lakers. Against teams with a record of .500 or above, the Cavaliers had a 28-11 record in the regular season, ranking higher than several top teams.
The team’s success can be attributed to Atkinson’s coaching, which has unlocked the players’ potential. Atkinson has given the players free range to develop, putting Mobley in a star role and trusting in every player’s abilities. This approach has elevated the Cavaliers, making them a legitimate contender for the playoffs.
As the Cavaliers enter the postseason, they have every indication of winning talent and a legitimate case to overcome any playoff series rival. With Atkinson at the helm, the Cavs look better than ever, and their ability to win against top teams makes them a strong contender for the championship.
The Cavaliers’ regular season record of 64-18 is the second-best in team history, and they have held onto the best record in the Eastern Conference for the entire year. As the team prepares for the playoffs, they will look to build on their momentum and make a deep run in the postseason.
In conclusion, the Cleveland Cavaliers have defied expectations this season, proving doubters wrong in three key areas. With Atkinson’s coaching and the team’s talent, the Cavs are a legitimate contender for the championship. As they enter the postseason, they will look to make a deep run and bring a title to the city of Cleveland.