The Cleveland Cavaliers are making waves in the NBA under the guidance of head coach Kenny Atkinson. With a formidable roster featuring All-Star backcourt duo Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland, along with versatile power forward Evan Mobley and veteran center Jarrett Allen, the Cavaliers have emerged as a force to be reckoned with. The team boasts a plus-11.5 net rating, a testament to their ability to outscore opponents significantly. However, the Cavaliers have faced skepticism due to having played the league's easiest schedule so far, according to ESPN's Basketball Power Index. As they prepare for tougher competition in the playoffs, including the likes of the Boston Celtics, New York Knicks, and Milwaukee Bucks, questions linger about whether their success is sustainable.
Evan Mobley stands out as a key player in Cleveland's rise. With his defensive prowess and versatility, Mobley contributes significantly to the team's performance. When he is on the court, the Cavaliers boast a 104.8 defensive rating, ranking second in the league. However, when Mobley sits on the bench, this rating drops to 112.8, highlighting his impact on the team's defense. Mobley's offensive game has also shown improvement, with his 3-point attempts increasing from just over one per game to nearly three, and he is now shooting 41.8% from deep. Despite this progress, some still question whether his shooting is reliable enough.
"Mobley's shooting is better, but not good enough." – Assistant coach
Coach Kenny Atkinson has simplified the Cavaliers' offense from last year, making it more accessible for players like Mobley and Garland. This strategic adjustment has allowed Mobley to take on a more prominent role in the team's offense. Atkinson notes that Mobley is beginning to realize his potential and is gaining confidence in his abilities.
"He's starting to believe how good he is." – Kenny Atkinson
The team's fast-paced playstyle has proven advantageous for both Mobley and Garland. According to a scout familiar with the team:
"The speed with which they play is so advantageous for Mobley and Garland, and it also helps cover up deficiencies for other players…. They've simplified things from last year." – Scout
This approach aligns with Coach Atkinson's vision for the team:
"It's exactly the way Kenny wants to play." – Scout
The Cavaliers' depth extends beyond their star players, with a supporting cast capable of overwhelming opponents in waves. This depth makes them reminiscent of past Golden State Warriors teams that were initially doubted but eventually found championship success. Georges Niang, a player who has observed Cleveland's evolution, remarks:
"I just think you've tapped into a whole different type of basketball." – Georges Niang
Donovan Mitchell, who plays alongside Mobley and Garland in the backcourt, emphasizes Mobley's unique talent:
"No. 1, You don't know how good Evan is." – Donovan Mitchell
While the Cavaliers' current success is undeniable, questions remain about whether Mobley's shooting will hold up against tougher opponents in the playoffs. A scout shares their thoughts on this matter:
"I think a lot of the questions have to do with if the Mobley [numbers are] real, as far as the shooting. I don't think it is. But, if it is, that's a huge deal." – Scout
Despite these uncertainties, Cleveland's improved offense and strong defensive capabilities provide a solid foundation for their playoff ambitions. Jarrett Allen's presence as a veteran anchor at center further stabilizes the team's efforts on both ends of the floor.
As Cleveland prepares to face more challenging opponents in the postseason, they will need to prove that their regular-season success can translate into playoff victories. The road ahead will test their resilience and adaptability as they aim to silence doubters and establish themselves as legitimate contenders.
Leave a Reply