The Cleveland Cavaliers are going through a challenging stretch, having gone 4-5 in their last nine games. As someone who’s covered the team extensively, I can confidently say this doesn’t mean it’s time to change expectations for this squad. The Cavs are still very much capable of winning the NBA Finals in June.
Their recent struggles don’t erase what they’ve shown earlier in the season. They remain an elite offensive team, even if their defense has taken a hit lately. It’s important to remember that almost every team in NBA history goes through rough patches during a long season. Even the Boston Celtics are experiencing similar difficulties right now.
What Should Expectations Be?
For the regular season, the primary goal should be securing the top seed in the Eastern Conference. As of now, the Cavs hold a 4.5-game lead over the Celtics for that coveted position. Winning the most games isn’t necessarily the benchmark for success; it’s about setting themselves up for playoff triumph.
Home-court advantage is crucial. Starting every series at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse and potentially hosting Game 7s in Cleveland could be vital to the Cavs’ postseason success. Their elite offense makes them a formidable playoff team, and there’s still room for defensive improvement.
Defensive Concerns and Fatigue
The team’s recent defensive woes are concerning, but it’s hard to imagine things getting much worse on that end. I believe they’ll rebound defensively, especially after the All-Star break. The current struggles might be partly attributed to fatigue, as the team looks ready for some rest.
Luxury Tax Considerations
There have been questions about the Cavs’ willingness to pay the luxury tax. Currently, they’re about $1.8 million over the tax line. Based on what I know, the organization is prepared to pay the tax for a championship-caliber team.
While there might be ways to duck under the tax line through trades, it seems unlikely the Cavs would disrupt their team chemistry or part with valuable contributors solely to avoid the tax. This roster is built to contend, and management appears committed to keeping the core intact.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Cavs’ current situation, tune into the Locked On Cavs podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Cavs Podcast:
• Upcoming schedule before the All-Star break
• Impact of home games on team performance
• Importance of the Boston matchup for Eastern Conference standings
