Being a fan of the Cleveland Cavaliers is no easy feat.
Since their legendary 2016 championship run led by LeBron James, Kyrie Irving, and Kevin Love, the Cavs have struggled. They haven’t made it out of the East since 2018.
Last season, though, offered a glimpse of progress.
Cleveland opened its 2024 campaign with 15 straight wins, becoming the fourth team in league history to start 15-0. The Cavs finished 64-18—the second-best record in franchise history—but fell short in the Eastern Conference semifinals to the Indiana Pacers.
But the stellar season wasn’t without its recognition.
Forward-center Evan Mobley was named Defensive Player of the Year. Additionally, head coach Kenny Atkinson earned Coach of the Year in his first season with the team. For a franchise searching for stability, both awards signaled that the Cavs are moving in the right direction.
Cavs Continue to Add Talent
The Cavaliers showed their intent to improve at last season’s trade deadline by acquiring forward De’Andre Hunter from the Atlanta Hawks.
This summer, they traded Isaac Okoro to the Chicago Bulls for point guard Lonzo Ball. The front office also re-signed guard Sam Merrill, who provides shooting depth, and brought back former Cavalier Larry Nance Jr. on a one-year deal in free agency.
In the 2025 NBA Draft, Cleveland selected guard Tyrese Proctor with the 49th overall pick. Proctor flashed potential in Summer League, showcasing ball-handling skills to complement the 40.5% he shot from three-point range at Duke last season. He is expected to bring strength and versatility come October.
With the roster returning to health, eyes are on what’s next. With Mobley, Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, and Jarrett Allen anchoring the “core four,” Cleveland is coming into the season prepared.
Early Injuries Force Lineup Shifts
Injuries, however, will force early adjustments. Garland underwent surgery in June to repair a left big toe sprain and is expected to miss the start of the season.
Max Strus, another key piece, had foot surgery that will sideline him for three to four months.
As a result, Cleveland’s projected opening-night starting five is expected to include Ball and Hunter alongside Mitchell, Mobley and Allen. Power forward Dean Wade is expected to start some games.
While these changes alter the team’s dynamic, Ball brings playmaking and defensive presence, while Hunter adds size on the wing.
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The Cavs expect both Garland and Strus to return before the postseason, giving Atkinson more depth and flexibility as the season progresses.
Cavs’ Path Through an Open East
Cleveland may also benefit from changes across the East.
Boston forward Jayson Tatum and Indiana guard Tyrese Haliburton—two of the conference’s top players—are expected to miss extended time with injuries suffered in the postseason. Their absences open the door for the Cavs to challenge for a higher playoff seed and potentially make a deeper run.
The defense, anchored by Mobley and Allen in the frontcourt, has been among the league’s best in recent years. With Mitchell’s proven scoring and Garland expected to rejoin the lineup midseason, Cleveland appears to have the balance required to contend. Ball also gives the Cavs a steady playmaker off the bench capable of handling pressure situations.
The Cavs are aiming to build on last year’s success while addressing the areas that ended their playoff run.
Depth remains key. Young players such as Proctor may see valuable minutes early in the season. Veterans like Nance Jr. and Merrill are also expected to play important roles in floor spacing and stabilizing the rotation.
Cleveland’s Next Step Toward Title Hopes
For Cleveland, the upcoming season represents a golden opportunity.
The Cavs have not reached the NBA Finals since James left the franchise in 2018, but their current core has begun carving out its own identity. With health, consistency and continued growth, the team has the potential to contend for a championship.
The road ahead won’t be easy. But with a strong roster, an award-winning coach, and an open window in the East, the question remains: Can the Cavs bring a championship back to the Land?
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