Despite the Cleveland Cavaliers’ impressive start to the season, their 15-game winning streak came to an end with a narrow 120-117 loss to the Boston Celtics. While there are no moral victories in the NBA, this game provided several reasons for optimism about the Cavaliers’ potential moving forward. Here are three key takeaways that suggest Cleveland can compete with the best, even when the odds are stacked against them.
1. Missing Key Players
The Cavaliers faced a significant challenge against the Celtics without three critical wing players: Isaac Okoro, Caris LeVert, and Dean Wade. Each of these players brings unique skills that are vital to the team’s success, especially in a matchup against a squad like Boston, which thrives on perimeter shooting and defensive versatility.
The Impact of Missing Wings
- Isaac Okoro: Known for his defensive prowess, Okoro is also a capable scorer, shooting over 44% from three this season. His absence left the Cavaliers without a crucial defensive anchor on the perimeter, making it easier for the Celtics to exploit mismatches.
- Caris LeVert: As another reliable shooter, LeVert’s absence was felt acutely. He not only contributes to the scoring but also helps stretch the floor, allowing other players more room to operate.
- Dean Wade: Although not as prominent as Okoro and LeVert, Wade’s versatility as a forward adds depth to the squad. His size and shooting ability are assets that were sorely missed against a well-rounded team like the Celtics.
Without these three players, Cleveland’s lineup became markedly smaller and less versatile. The Cavaliers had to rely on a combination of Darius Garland, Donovan Mitchell, and their two big men, Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley. This led to significant mismatches against Boston, whose size and skill were evident throughout the game. The inability to switch effectively on defense allowed the Celtics to exploit these mismatches, leading to a lopsided three-point shooting disparity.
2. The Three-Point Shooting Disparity
Despite the loss, the Cavaliers showcased resilience against the Celtics, particularly in the context of three-point shooting. Boston is known for its potent perimeter attack, often leading the league in both attempts and makes from beyond the arc. However, in this game, the disparity in three-point shooting was stark and telling.
Analyzing the Numbers
- Celtics’ Performance: The Celtics made 22 three-pointers at an impressive 54% shooting clip. This is a typical performance for a team that thrives on outside shooting, but what’s noteworthy is how the Cavaliers managed to stay competitive despite this.
- Cavaliers’ Struggles: Cleveland, on the other hand, made only 10 three-pointers, resulting in a 36-point disparity in three-point scoring (Boston’s 66 points to Cleveland’s 30). This gap is unusually large, especially considering that the Cavaliers have been strong from three-point range all season.
Despite the challenges, the fact that Cleveland lost by just three points in this context is a significant indicator of their potential. The Cavaliers are typically a solid three-point shooting team, averaging over 15 makes per game. The absence of Okoro and LeVert, both shooting above 44% from three, undoubtedly impacted their performance, but it’s reasonable to expect that the Cavaliers will shoot better in future matchups, especially against teams like the Celtics.
Future Outlook
For the Cavaliers to beat the Celtics in a playoff scenario, they will need to improve their three-point shooting, particularly from their key players. Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland are capable of hitting tough shots, but they will need to find their rhythm and make contested shots against strong defensive teams. If Cleveland can regain their shooting form, they can turn this disparity into an advantage.
3. Darius Garland’s Off Night
Darius Garland’s performance in this game was another key factor to consider. He struggled significantly, shooting just 3-of-21 from the field and missing all six of his three-point attempts. It’s important to note that Garland is not just a talented player; he’s also crucial to the Cavaliers’ offensive system. His ability to create shots for himself and others is central to Cleveland’s success.
Understanding Garland’s Struggles
- Defensive Pressure: The Celtics’ defense is among the best in the league, and they applied consistent pressure on Garland throughout the game. His shots were contested, and he faced aggressive traps that limited his effectiveness.
- Historical Context: Garland has had an outstanding season overall, averaging nearly 21 points on 49/43/93 shooting splits. His off night against Boston is an anomaly rather than the norm. Historically, players of Garland’s caliber bounce back strongly after tough outings.
The Silver Lining
Even on a night when Garland was clearly off his game, the Cavaliers managed to keep it competitive. If Garland can return to form in future matchups, it will significantly boost the Cavaliers’ chances against top-tier teams. His shooting ability and playmaking are essential for stretching defenses and opening up opportunities for his teammates.
Conclusion: A Positive Outlook
While losing to the Celtics by three points may sting, the Cavaliers have plenty of reasons to feel hopeful moving forward. Despite missing three key wing players, they managed to stay competitive against one of the top teams in the league. The disparity in three-point shooting is a statistic that they can aim to improve upon, especially with the return of their absent players. Furthermore, Darius Garland’s off night is unlikely to become a trend, and his potential resurgence can help propel the team.
The Cavaliers have shown that they can compete with the best, and as they look to the future, they can draw confidence from their performance against Boston. With a full-strength roster, Cleveland has the potential to make a significant impact in the playoffs and challenge for the Eastern Conference title. The road ahead may be tough, but the foundation for success is firmly in place.