The Cleveland Cavaliers are taking a bold approach this season, focusing on long-term success rather than immediate results. After a disappointing playoff exit against the Indiana Pacers last year, the team has decided to accept early-season struggles in order to develop a squad better suited for deep playoff runs.
According to beat reporter Chris Fedor, the Cavaliers are prioritizing their performance in May and June over November games. “The Cavs don”t give a rip about November. They don”t,” Fedor stated on the latest episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast. Although the team aims to win games, they are not overly concerned with the outcomes right now.
This strategy is a direct response to last season”s painful playoff exit, where the Cavaliers, despite winning 64 games and boasting one of the best offenses in NBA history, fell short against the Pacers in the Eastern Conference semifinals. Fedor noted that players like Max Strus felt that the loss represented a lost opportunity, believing they had a championship-caliber team.
As a result, the Cavaliers are using the early part of the season as a testing ground for different lineups and skills development. This is evident in the changing role of young star Evan Mobley, who is taking more jump shots and increasing his ball-handling responsibilities. The team is also implementing a rigorous load management system, sitting both Donovan Mitchell and Mobley for a recent game against Miami, even after a day off.
This long-term vision has created a divide among fans. Some fans, like a supporter from Mayfield Heights, expressed their support for sacrificing early wins for later success. However, others feel disappointed and frustrated by the perceived lack of urgency, especially in light of their financial support for the team. One fan even expressed intentions to cancel their season tickets, questioning the commitment of the team.
The Cavaliers” front office and coaching staff remain resolute in their approach, currently holding a 7-4 record. While not as dominant as last season, they are still positioned well within the Eastern Conference, allowing them to experiment without jeopardizing their playoff chances.
The true effectiveness of this strategy will not be measured until the postseason, where the Cavaliers hope that their early sacrifices will result in a more adaptable and resilient team. As they navigate this journey, the tension between immediate success and long-term planning will continue to shape the dialogue surrounding the franchise.
For more insights, tune into this week”s podcast.
