ESPN has placed the Cleveland Cavaliers under the microscope, asking whether the franchise can sustain its recent rise after posting 64 victories in 2024-25—second only to the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The outlet reviewed all 30 NBA teams heading into the 2025-26 campaign and noted that Cleveland “evolved from also-rans to legitimate contenders” but now faces key roster and salary-cap challenges.
Key points from ESPN’s assessment
- Win total: Cleveland’s 64 wins last season trailed only Oklahoma City.
- Playoff exit: The Cavaliers were eliminated in the Eastern Conference semifinals.
- Financial status: Already in the league’s second apron, Cleveland ranks last among all teams in cap flexibility.
- Core under contract: Four primary players are signed long term, including All-Stars Evan Mobley, 24, and Donovan Mitchell, 29.
- Short-term outlook: ESPN suggests the Cavaliers have enough youth and tradable assets to remain competitive for at least three more seasons.
Despite cap constraints, ESPN believes Cleveland can still retool around Mobley and Mitchell by leveraging existing contracts in potential trades. For the immediate future, the network calls the Eastern Conference “wide open” and lists the Cavaliers as a possible favorite.
While speculation continues—one proposal reportedly sends forward Dean Wade to the Boston Celtics—the organization’s primary focus remains the upcoming season and maintaining contender status.
Source: Hoops Wire
