The Cleveland Cavaliers have certainly had their share of struggles already this season. With seven new players on the roster, they have not quite been able to hit on all cylinders. Many fans are expecting the Cavaliers to simply ‘flip the switch’ and start destroying teams with their talented roster.
So far this season, the Cavaliers have earned great wins against top-tier competition like the Boston Celtics and the Milwaukee Bucks. They have also, however, wet the bed against teams that they should have easily beat.
This lack of focus had the Cavaliers stumbling in the beginning of the season. One thing that has remained remotely consistent was the play of the bench. Their outstanding play has been highlighted during the team’s recent seven game win streak.
Cleveland Cavaliers Bench is Key to Their Success
For the Cavaliers in recent years, the main problem has always been the bench production. This problem was highly evident in last year’s finals clash with the Golden State Warriors. LeBron James could barely get off of the floor which resulted in fatigue. The bench in recent years relied on James and Kyrie Irving to create shots for them.
This year, the bench is actually looking decent and reliable. Dwyane Wade coming off the bench has given them an identity. Wade orchestrating and being surrounded by shooters has been a working recipe so far this season. The versatility of Jeff Green has also given the bench a sense of toughness.
While the Cavaliers had been struggling earlier in the season, they are now starting to click a little more and are riding a seven game win streak. Their latest win against the Charlotte Hornets was impressive because of how they were able to hold them to only 99 points. The bench was also able to extend the lead and give James some much needed rest.
For Cavalier fans, the bench production thus far has been great to see. Don’t forget, this is all without the services of Isaiah Thomas, Tristan Thompson, or Derrick Rose. If those pieces can come back healthy and ready to fit in, that will make the bench even stronger.
Cleveland fans are hoping Isaiah can replicate last season’s success. Isaiah’s return, paired with a solid bench, can make Cleveland a tough out for anybody.
Main Photo
Embed from Getty Images
