The Cavs Aren’t Off to a Great Start; They’re a Great Team

After Sunday night, the Cleveland Cavaliers are 17-1 on the season.

Welcome to today’s newsletter, where we dive into the Cleveland Cavaliers’ impressive start to the season. With a record of 17-1, it’s clear that this isn’t just a hot streak—this is who the Cavs are. Let’s break down their recent victory over the Toronto Raptors and explore the key factors contributing to their success.

- Cavs’ Dominance: The Cavaliers have shown they’re more than just a team on a hot streak. With 17 wins out of 18 games, they’ve established themselves as a formidable force in the NBA. Their recent win against the Raptors, with a score of 122-101, further cements their status as a championship contender.

- Game Analysis: Sunday’s game was a testament to the Cavs’ ability to control the court. Despite a physical game and a significant free throw disparity—Toronto shot 34 free throws to Cleveland’s 14—the Cavs maintained their composure and led by double digits for most of the game.

- Ty Jerome’s Impact: Ty Jerome has been a standout player this season, consistently delivering strong performances. With four games scoring 20 or more points in the last three weeks, Jerome is proving to be a reliable asset off the bench. His contributions in scoring, playmaking, and defense have been crucial to the Cavs’ success.

- Defensive Strategy: While the Cavs have been exceptional offensively, their defense has room for improvement. Ranked 19th in defensive ratings over the last 10 games, the team acknowledges the need to tighten up on that end. Sunday’s game showed progress, but there’s still work to be done to reach their full potential.

- Injury Updates: The Cavs are managing injuries with key players like Max Strus and Dean Wade. Strus, recovering from an ankle sprain, is expected to return by the end of December. Wade’s injury seems less severe, with a potential return in the next 10 days. The team is cautious, ensuring players are fully ready before returning to action.

- Looking Ahead: The Cavs face upcoming challenges with games against the Atlanta Hawks and a rematch with the Boston Celtics. These matchups will test their resilience and provide further opportunities to solidify their defensive strategies.

In conclusion, the Cleveland Cavaliers are proving to be a powerhouse this season. With a strong roster, strategic gameplay, and key contributions from players like Ty Jerome, they’re on a path to potentially clinch the NBA championship. Stay tuned for more insights and analysis on Locked On Cavs.