The Cleveland Cavaliers kicked off their 2024-25 NBA season with Media Day on September 30, 2024, at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse. The event marked the beginning of a new chapter for the team as they look to build on their success from the previous season and take the next step toward becoming championship contenders.
New Leadership, Same Core
The most significant change for the Cavaliers this season is the arrival of head coach Kenny Atkinson. The former Brooklyn Nets coach brings a fresh perspective and a reputation for player development. The organization was particularly drawn to his plan for forward Evan Mobley, who many predict will have a breakout year. Despite the coaching change, the Cavaliers have maintained continuity in their roster. The core four of Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen remain intact, with the team betting on their continued growth and chemistry.
High Expectations
ESPN analyst Kevin Pelton’s projections have generated excitement among Cavs fans, predicting that Cleveland will finish the 2024-25 season with 50.6 wins and secure the second seed in the Eastern Conference. Donovan Mitchell expressed confidence in the team, claiming the Cavaliers are “championship contenders when we’re healthy.” Mitchell’s arrival two years ago has been instrumental, with the Cavs reaching the playoffs for the first time since 2018 in 2023 and winning a playoff series without LeBron James for the first time since 1993 this past season.
Media Day Highlights
Media Day gave fans their first look at the new season’s team. Players and coaches participated in photo shoots and interviews, emphasizing that team chemistry is stronger than ever. Mitchell, entering his third season with the Cavs, radiated confidence and leadership. His offseason was a major talking point, with him signing a three-year, $150.3 million extension. Mitchell mentioned he had a feeling he would re-sign even before the season started last year, but his certainty solidified after the team’s trip to Paris. Mitchell certainly knows how to win over the Cleveland faithful, as he was seen tailgating in the Muni lot before the Browns season opener and plans to attend the Guardians’ upcoming playoff games. His passion for Cleveland and the Cavaliers is evident, and he looks to solidify his legacy with a deep playoff run this season.
Darius Garland, looking to bounce back after missing the All-Star team last season, was determined during his media sessions. He discussed his growing chemistry with Mitchell and his role as the team’s primary playmaker. Garland suffered a broken jaw last season, leading to a loss of 15 pounds and what he described as “playing catch-up” for the rest of the year. Garland, and the other members of the core four, expressed confidence that he would return to All-Star form, which is crucial for a deep playoff run.
Jarrett Allen, who faced criticism after missing the remainder of the playoffs due to a cracked rib, addressed the situation at Media Day. Allen clarified that if he could have played, he would have, noting it took two weeks after the season for the pain to subside. He also had to deal with looming trade rumors throughout the off-season, but in the end, Allen inked a three-year, $91 million extension. His connection with Atkinson from their Brooklyn days reassures the Cavs of his importance, with Mitchell and team management emphasizing how essential Allen is to their success. Allen’s right-hand man in the paint, Evan Mobley, also got an extension this off-season, signing a five-year, $224 million contract. The two will continue to look forward to being the driving force of last year’s highest rated defense.
Rookie forward Jaylon Tyson also drew attention. Following an impressive summer league, where he averaged 15.4ppg, 7.0 rpg and 4.4 apg on .588/.400/.917 splits, Tyson expressed his willingness to do whatever it takes to win. He said he wants to model his game after Josh Hart, a player who made a difference in the Cavs’ playoff series against the Knicks two years ago, simply because “he’s a winner.” While it is unclear if Tyson will see significant playing time this season, there is always a lot of optimism when drafting a player like that.
Looking Ahead
As the Cavaliers embark on their 2024-25 campaign, General Manager Koby Altman emphasized a step-by-step approach to building on their recent success. With a talented roster, emerging young players, and a new coaching staff, the Cavaliers are poised for what could be a breakthrough season. All eyes will be on them as they aim to stay healthy and make a deep playoff run. Media Day set the tone for what promises to be an exciting season, with the core four leading the charge under new leadership.
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