The Cavaliers finally end their nervous spell! The team that never looked dull all season suddenly fell into a deep rut, losing 4 games in a row. It ultimately raised a lot of questions, particularly on the team’s postseason run. Tonight, taking out the outmatching Utah Jazz, the Cavs bought some breathing space. Building on that coach, Kenny Atkinson, revealed the team’s utmost priority, along with that, he revealed the team’s unaffordable luxury. 

The Cavs were on a roll right from game 1, orchestrating a 16-0 run. It seemed as if they would break the Warriors’ 73-9 record. Despite a few rare losses, they continued to dominate the league with healthy winning streaks throughout the season. Ultimately, they became the first team to qualify for the playoffs. Right when we thought nothing could go wrong with the team, they uncharacteristically lost 4 games in a row. 

While their playoff berth is already locked, it’s natural to think that the Cavs may have decided to tone down their domination and prepare for the postseason. However, that was a luxury that the team can’t afford, said Kenny Atkinson. Speaking after the 120-91 win over the Jazz, he said, “I don’t think we can afford to cruise. Quite honestly, I don’t think we still are in a kind of get-ready-for-playoff mode.” 

Especially, with the Celtics behind their toe, and Thunder poised to finish the season on top, the Cavs could put homecourt advantage at risk if they opt for cruise control. Supposedly, they face the Thunder in the Finals, a boisterous crowd in 4 games could put the team in trouble. Moreover, there are in a spot that has never been in the past. The last time, they secured 1st seed (57-25) was in 2015-16, the great LeBron James era. However, at the time, the Raptors were right behind them with a 56-26. So, there was no control of cruise control and they can’t really put themselves in that situation.

The reporter cited the Denver Nuggets‘ attempt to take their remaining regular season games on a lighter note during their path to the 2023 championship. Well, at that time, the disparity between competitive teams was a little different. A small error could cost will push them down.

While the Celts are 5 games away from taking the top seed, the Wine & Gold team can’t take them lightly. Kenny added, “We have rested some guys… Especially on this hellacious trip we’re on. So we have done that. But we’re definitely not in cruise control or take the pedal off the gas. I don’t think we can afford to do that.” In the meantime, Kenny revealed the team’s target for the remainder of the regular season. 

Kenny Atkinson’s master plan for the Cavaliers

Well, the common goal for any team fighting in playoff contention would be to win the remaining games and find a better spot on the ladder. However, it’s quite different for the Cavs, considering their top seed is already secured (at least with a 5-game advantage). Notably, they still need to have a better record than the OKC Thunder to have a homecourt advantage in the Finals. In case they face each other. 

So, apart from winning all games, the Cavs would also focus on different combinations and health. Kenny said, “We’re trying different combinations. You see, we went small tonight with Dean at the five, so subtly, we’re trying some lineup combinations that are maybe a little different. Big part of it seeing lineup combinations. But and then keeping this team fresh and healthy for the playoffs.“ 

However, between these two goals, if you’d ask Kenny to pick the most important one, he’d have an answer too. The coach said, “Keeping this team fresh and healthy for the playoffs. I mean, at the end of the day, health is, you know, our number one priority. We obviously want to improve and get focused for the playoffs. But we’ve got to be healthy first.” 

That’s loud and clear. We all know how injury messed up the Cavs’ run last season. So, they better avoid it this season. What do you think? Can they lift the trophy this season? Let us know in the comments.