The Cleveland Cavaliers are making waves in the NBA with their historic start to the 2024-25 season. After a thrilling 116-114 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks, the Cavs have surged to an 8-0 record, standing as the only unbeaten team left in the Eastern Conference. With each win, their confidence and momentum continue to build, energizing fans and establishing the Cavs as a team to watch.
This remarkable start matches the best in franchise history, set by the 1976-77 squad that also opened 8-0. Under the leadership of first-year coach Kenny Atkinson, Cleveland has been resilient, winning games in various ways and showcasing the depth and versatility of their roster. The team’s impressive victory over the Bucks, even as Milwaukee played without two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, highlighted the Cavs’ balanced approach and ability to step up in crunch time.
Darius Garland’s Heroics Lead the Way
One of the standout players in the Cavaliers’ win over the Bucks was Darius Garland. The young point guard put on a sensational performance, scoring 39 points and going head-to-head with Milwaukee’s Damian Lillard in a thrilling display of shot-making. Garland hit 7 of 11 three-pointers, including a go-ahead shot with 45 seconds left to secure the lead for Cleveland. His composure in high-pressure moments has been essential to the Cavs’ success, earning him praise from fans and teammates alike.
“It was amazing,” Garland said, reflecting on the matchup with Lillard. “I grew up watching Dame. It was super cool playing some one-on-one basketball.” However, it’s the team-oriented style of play that has fueled Cleveland’s strong start. With contributions from across the roster, Garland and the Cavs are proving to be a cohesive unit that thrives on shared success.
Donovan Mitchell’s Leadership and the Team’s Depth
While Garland dazzled on the offensive end, All-Star Donovan Mitchell has provided steady leadership, both on and off the court. Mitchell, who signed a three-year extension with the Cavs this summer, has been a crucial component in the team’s early success. His poise and confidence are contagious, inspiring younger players and reinforcing the Cavs’ commitment to team chemistry.
Mitchell has already shown his clutch ability this season, including a game-winning jumper against the Bucks in their previous meeting. Reflecting on the team’s start, Mitchell highlighted the versatility in their wins: “We’ve won in so many different ways,” he said. “That’s been more impressive to me than the eight wins, just how we’ve done it. We’ve had blowouts, close games, comebacks. Every night, it’s somebody new.”
MONDAY’S FINAL SCORES
Darius Garland (39 PTS, 8 AST) and the @cavs move to 8-0 on the season, tying their best start in franchise history!
Evan Mobley: 17 PTS, 3 BLK
Jarrett Allen: 14 PTS, 15 REB, 6 AST
Damian Lillard: 36 PTS, 7 AST pic.twitter.com/1qhzblDzBi— NBA (@NBA) November 5, 2024
This depth has allowed Coach Atkinson to tap into his bench, ensuring a well-rounded contribution. Even with injuries to key players like Dean Wade and Caris LeVert, the Cavs have maintained high performance levels. Against the Bucks, Atkinson used 10 players, including rookie Luke Travers, who was making only his second appearance. Mitchell praised Atkinson’s approach, saying, “It just shows the belief in the group, from top to bottom, and the belief we have in each other.”
First-Year Coach Kenny Atkinson’s Winning Formula
Kenny Atkinson, in his first season with the Cavaliers, has quickly established a winning culture. Known for his player development skills and adaptability, Atkinson has embraced the Cavs’ deep roster and allowed various players to shine. His coaching style emphasizes trust, allowing each player to contribute based on their strengths, and his willingness to rotate the lineup has kept opponents guessing.
Atkinson’s influence is clear in the Cavs’ approach to games. By fostering a team-centric culture, he has created an environment where players are eager to support each other and work toward shared goals. This unity is reflected on the court, where the Cavaliers have excelled in close games and thrived in high-stakes moments.
Cleveland’s Historic Start: Matching a Franchise Record
With their win over the Bucks, the Cavs matched the franchise record for the best start, set by the 1976-77 team. That season, Cleveland began 8-0 before finishing 43-39 under coach Bill Fitch. However, Donovan Mitchell is cautious about celebrating too soon, preferring to stay focused on the road ahead. When a reporter mentioned the historic record, Mitchell quickly responded, “We’re not doing that. I did know that. It’s great, but at the end of the day, it’s been eight games.”
NBA STANDINGS UPDATE:
▪️ CLE and OKC remain unbeaten
▪️ BOS moves to 7-1, PHX and GSW to 6-1Download the NBA App for more ⤵️ https://t.co/wV1YsrFUXw pic.twitter.com/tshswpFLib
— NBA (@NBA) November 5, 2024
While Mitchell is right to keep the team grounded, there’s no denying the excitement surrounding Cleveland’s early success. Matching a record set nearly 50 years ago is no small feat, and it speaks to the potential of this team to make a meaningful run in the playoffs. Although the Cavs know that maintaining an unbeaten record indefinitely is unlikely, they are relishing the journey and embracing the challenges that lie ahead.
Key Contributors: Every Game Brings a New Hero
One of the most impressive aspects of Cleveland’s start has been the variety of players who have stepped up when needed. From Jarrett Allen’s presence in the paint to rookie contributions and clutch shooting from role players, every game has seen a different player make an impact. This depth has been crucial, especially with injuries to Wade and LeVert. Allen’s presence as a shot-blocker and rebounder has been vital, while Evan Mobley continues to grow as a versatile forward capable of affecting both ends of the floor.
Mitchell emphasized this adaptability, noting how the team has found different ways to win: “Every night, it’s somebody new.” This team-wide commitment has not only propelled the Cavs to victory but has also strengthened the bond within the squad.
Looking Ahead: Can the Cavs Keep the Streak Alive?
As the Cavaliers prepare for upcoming games, fans and analysts alike are wondering just how long they can keep this unbeaten streak going. While it’s unlikely they’ll challenge the NBA record of 24-0 set by the 2015-16 Golden State Warriors, the Cavs have a realistic shot at setting a high benchmark for the franchise.
The team is well-aware that the first loss will come eventually, but they’re enjoying the ride and staying focused on their performance. “We’re all just locked in,” Garland said, summing up the team’s mindset. This focus, combined with Atkinson’s steady guidance, could see the Cavaliers remain competitive throughout the season and contend for a high playoff seed in the Eastern Conference.
A Team on the Rise, Powered by Unity and Depth
The Cleveland Cavaliers’ 8-0 start has been nothing short of historic. With standout performances from Darius Garland, steady leadership from Donovan Mitchell, and a deep, adaptable roster, the Cavs are showing the NBA that they’re a force to be reckoned with. Under Coach Kenny Atkinson, Cleveland has built a team-first culture that emphasizes unity, resilience, and the ability to win in various ways.
As they continue to build on this success, the Cavaliers have captured the hearts of their fans and reignited hopes for a deep playoff run. Whether they continue this streak or eventually hit a rough patch, the Cavs have already proven that they have the talent, depth, and focus to make this season one to remember.
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