Cleveland Cavaliers 2022-2023 NBA season preview and predictions

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CLEVELAND, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 26: Isaac Okoro #35 interviews Cedi Osman #16 of the Cleveland Cavaliers during Media Day at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on September 26, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /

Team Strengths

Interior Defense

Between Jarrett Allen, Evan Mobley, Dean Wade, Lamar Stevens, and even Robin Lopez are going to bring a level of aggression and skill to the low post defensively that few, if any teams can match. The trade of Rudy Gobert to the Minnesota Timberwolves has made many believe the T-Wolves have the best frontcourt in the league, but that’s just not true. Gobert isn’t an offensive force and his paint-mate Karl Anthony-Towns isn’t the defensive player he needs to be. The Cavs’ twin-tower combo may be the best in the league.

Shot Creation

The Cavaliers have a lot of talent who can create their own shots. Darius Garland can create his shots at all three levels, while Donovan Mitchell inside the arc is a threat all day. Kevin Love may not be a top-tier dribbler, can pump fake is way free on the perimeter, and can still bang down low and get his shot off. That doesn’t take into consideration guys like Cedi Osman, Caris LeVert, Ricky Rubio, and others.

Depth

The team has depth, unlike any team I’ve seen. Sure, the LeBron Part Deux era of the Cavs had some deep teams but they were all guys on the decline. There isn’t one guy on the Cavs, save for maybe Love, who is on the “decline” and is in the starting lineup or rotation.

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