CLEVELAND, Ohio — The Cleveland Cavaliers are grappling with early season challenges, raising questions about their competitiveness and toughness. In the latest episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, host Ethan Sands and beat reporter Chris Fedor discussed the Cavs’ potential, particularly in light of a recent injury to center Jarrett Allen.
Allen suffered a fractured finger on his left hand during pre-game warmups ahead of the game against the Boston Celtics. Despite the injury, he played but struggled with his left hand, fumbling passes and avoiding using it for shots. Fedor reported that the team does not believe surgery is necessary, viewing the injury primarily as a matter of pain management. Allen’s status for the upcoming game against the Toronto Raptors remains uncertain, dependent on his comfort level and the team’s assessment of his ability to play effectively.
Defensive struggles have also surfaced as a concern for the Cavaliers. Despite intentions to prioritize defense this season, the team currently ranks outside the top ten in defensive efficiency. A significant issue has been their inability to secure rebounds, placing them among the worst rebounding teams in the league. Allen, a pivotal player in this regard, has recorded only one double-digit rebound game in the first five outings. The absence of Isaac Okoro, known for his tough defense, has compounded these difficulties, suggesting a lack of effort and communication that contradicts the team’s playoff aspirations.
The podcast further explored the development of Evan Mobley, who has seen a notable increase in his offensive responsibilities this season. His average touches per game have risen from 57.9 last season to 73.8. Despite this uptick, Mobley has struggled with efficiency, particularly in finishing at the rim. The hosts pondered whether his inherently laid-back demeanor is conducive to fulfilling the role of a primary offensive creator, describing the current offensive flow as “forced” and “clunky.” They view this phase as experimental, suggesting adjustments will be made as the team identifies what Mobley can handle effectively.
The conversation also touched on perceptions surrounding the Cavaliers’ toughness. Analysts, including former NBA player Kendrick Perkins, have labeled the team as “soft,” implying a need for a more aggressive, confrontational presence on the roster. While Max Strus is often cited as the team’s toughest player, there is a growing belief that more is needed to cultivate a championship mindset. This perception of lacking mental and physical toughness ties directly to the team’s struggles on the boards and their response to physical play.
Despite these challenges, both Sands and Fedor emphasized that it is too soon for alarm. The Cavaliers are not at full strength, relying on players with expanded roles compared to last season. For instance, Jalen Tyson and Dean Wade have taken on significant minutes, which does not reflect the team’s full potential. They argue that patience is essential as players recover and team dynamics evolve.
In conclusion, the Cavaliers are navigating a complex early season landscape characterized by injuries, defensive lapses, and questions about their competitive edge. As the team continues to adjust and evaluate its roster, a clearer picture of its championship potential will emerge once they reach full health. The upcoming games will serve as critical tests for the Cavaliers as they seek to establish their identity and fortify their position in the league.