With the playoffs fast approaching this year, the Cleveland Cavaliers have overcome tumultuous odds in the face of constant doubt and dissension.
This season hasn’t been all sunshine and glory for the Cavaliers. They battled injuries throughout the season, but established themselves as the third seed in the Eastern Conference. Even though they still have a lot to prove in the postseason, Cleveland looks much more prepared for the road ahead compared to where they were last season.
After a short postseason run against the New York Knicks, the Cavs entered the 2023-24 regular season with many expectations and doubts about their chances for long-term championship success. Their young core of Darius Garland and Evan Mobley was unproven and remained quiet in the postseason. Donovan Mitchell refused to commit to staying in Cleveland this offseason. Cavs coach JB Bickerstaff was considered a disappointing offensive coach. This was just the tip of the iceberg.
Some of these questions and concerns remain. The Cavs are not a dynasty team and need to take the next step before the opposition respects or fears them. Yet the Cavaliers have risen to the challenge and proven themselves in multiple ways already this regular season amid doubt. It will take time and postseason success to silence all the detractors, but the Cavaliers are poised to establish themselves as a determined force in the East.
Both individually and as a team, Cleveland has proven a handful of tired and tiresome misconceptions wrong this season. In the playoffs and upcoming offseason, they will have another opportunity to set a new standard for success in the Cavaliers organization.
