When LeBron James left the Cleveland Cavaliers (again) in 2018, many figured they would get lost in the wilderness of rebuilding.
Rebuilding an NBA team after a superstar such as James departs is usually a long and arduous process, and the league’s history is littered with teams that were never quite able to succeed during such a process.
But the Cavs have found a way to compress their rebuilding timeframe.
On Sunday, they clinched a playoff spot for the first time since 2018, and with the fourth-best record in the Eastern Conference, they could have the ability to upset one of the conference’s true championship contenders come playoff time.
The Cavaliers have clinched a playoff berth.
This is the first time since 1998 that Cleveland will be in the playoffs without LeBron James. pic.twitter.com/JIEs2O33WS
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) March 27, 2023
This is also the first time since 1998 that Cleveland will be in the NBA playoffs without the services of James.
Although the franchise had some very good teams in the late 1980s and early 1990s, they have never been a prime-time squad outside of James’ two tenures there.
But now, the Cavs have two All-Star caliber guards in the smooth Darius Garland and the explosive Donovan Mitchell, as well as a possible future All-Star in big man Evan Mobley.
They’re also ranked first in defensive rating, something that is very rare for such a young and inexperienced team.
The Cavs may not have a great chance of winning the NBA championship this year, but they have a very bright future, especially if and when Mobley becomes the superstar many feel he can become.
With the Cleveland Browns also boasting a strong roster, this is a hopeful time to be a sports fan in Northeast Ohio.
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