2. Cleveland Cavaliers
Cleveland did the best job of all contenders in reshaping its roster, and the Cavaliers really didn’t give up much. While the addition of James Harden has its pluses—taking over primary playmaking and the creator role, as well as being a possession-by-possession problem solver — there is also concern about his perimeter defense.
Dennis Schroder and Keon Ellis solidify the Cavs bench. Both players played well in their debut, combining for 17 points and five steals in the Cavaliers’ 124-91 victory over the Clippers. They were also a combined +18 in plus/minus rating.
Cleveland is in fourth place in the Eastern Conference at 31-21. The Cavaliers are seven games behind conference-leading Detroit, so the top seed appears to be out of the question. But the Cavs could take over the No. 2 seed from New York.
