The Cleveland Cavaliers have taken their hot start to the next level, elevating their game in December to solidify their status as an elite NBA team. After an impressive 15-0 run to begin the season, questions lingered about the sustainability of their success. However, the Cavs’ performance in December has silenced doubters and showcased their true potential.
In December, the Cavaliers played 13 games and went an astounding 12-1. What’s more impressive is the manner of these victories – 11 of the 12 wins were by 10 points or more. This dominance wasn’t just a continuation of their early-season form; it was an improvement.
Offensively, the Cavs reached new heights. They boasted the best offense in the NBA for December, with an offensive rating of 121.4 points per 100 possessions. This marked an improvement from their already impressive November performance, where they ranked third in the league offensively.
A key factor in their offensive success has been their three-point shooting. In December, the Cavs shot an incredible 41.3% from beyond the arc, leading the NBA. This wasn’t just a hot streak – it’s becoming clear that this team is genuinely elite in this aspect of the game.
What’s particularly encouraging is that the Cavs didn’t just maintain their offensive prowess; they also significantly improved their defense. After ranking 20th defensively in November, they surged to the third-best defense in December, allowing just 106.2 points per 100 possessions.
The defensive improvement was largely due to their enhanced perimeter defense. Opponents’ three-point percentage plummeted from 39.8% in November to 33.8% in December. The Cavs also limited three-point attempts, allowing the fifth-fewest per game in the league.
This two-way excellence has established the Cavaliers as a force to be reckoned with in the NBA. The consistency and improvement shown over the first few months of the season suggest that this level of play is sustainable.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Cavs’ December performance, tune into the Locked On Cavs podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Cavs Podcast:
• Max Strus’s potential impact and ideal lineup combinations
• Cavs’ New Year’s resolutions and championship aspirations
• Updated NBA championship odds for the Cavaliers
