Cavaliers Take ‘Huge Step’ As Playoffs Near

The Cleveland Cavaliers feel they're in a good spot as the NBA Playoffs approach.

Apr 10, 2024; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) and center Jarrett Allen (31) celebrate during the second half against the Memphis Grizzlies at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports / Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

The struggles that the Cleveland Cavaliers have faced over the last two months have been talked about a lot. From injuries to inconsistent play, poor defense, and blowing large leads there's been a lot to figure out with this team.

However, the Cavaliers put it all together and managed to take down the Indiana Pacers on Friday night and clinch home-court advantage in the first round of the Playoffs. The team feels that this victory now points in the right direction as the regular season comes to a close.

“Obviously, I think continuing to get healthy, getting all of our pieces back together, and continuing to grow and gel at the right moment,” said Georges Niang after the win. 

“I think [Friday night] was a huge step for us. There are some things we want to continue to work out, go over them tomorrow, and get ready for our last game. Then it’s win or go home. Some people play their best basketball when their backs are against the walls.” 

Donovan Mitchell echoed what Niang had to say.

“A win like tonight is definitely [big], and the way we won too, " said Mitchell. "Obviously, the scoring but the little plays too … just continuing to execute in different situations. There’s something we have to clean up too. But I think we’re in a good spot. This is a good win for us especially mentally, coming off that trip. I think we’re in a good spot."

Apr 10, 2024; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) and center Jarrett Allen (31) celebrate during the second half against the Memphis Grizzlies at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports / Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

The one thing the Cavs were able to do against the Pacers that they haven’t been able to in the last month is close the game. Indiana obtained momentum early in the third quarter and cut Cleveland’s lead to three points. However, Cleveland outscored the Pacers 32-26 with a clutch three from Darius Garland to secure the victory. 

Who the Cavaliers play in the first round remains to be seen, but this team feels confident about where they’re at as they prepare for the playoffs.