What We Learned After Cavs Back-To-Back With Bucks

The Cleveland Cavaliers went on an eight-game winning streak at the beginning of the New Year. Still, some credited Cleveland's easy schedule as a reason for their success. The Cavs' two-game set with the Milwaukee Bucks gave fans a better idea of where they sit in the Eastern Conference.

Cavaliers Are Eastern Conference Threat

There's been a lot of dialogue surrounding where the Cavs stand in the East Conference. Yes, they just went on an eight-game win streak but some in the national media pointed to their weak schedule as a reason for their success.

Splitting a back-to-back with the current third seed in the East, on the road, while missing two key starters Darius Garland and Evan Mobley should put the rest of the Conference on notice that the Cavaliers are a real threat.

Isaac Okoro Elite Defender

Isaac Okoro has proven over these last two games and Cleveland's previous two matchups with the Bucks that he should be an elite defender in the NBA.

He's defended Damian Lillard for a total of 24 minutes during their season season and let's just say it hasn't been Dame Time for the Bucks guard. Lillard has shot 26.5% (9-34) from the floor and 17.6% (3-17) from behind the arc while being guarded by Ice. Okoro has also forced four turnovers and blocked three of Lillard's shots.

J.B. Bickerstaff gave Okoro a shout-out on Friday for his effort.

Cavs Need More Size

The frontcourt depth was something that has been talked about ever since the Cavs lost to the New York Knicks in last year's playoffs. The last two games against the Bucks have made it clear it's something Cleveland still needs to address.

The Bucks outrebounded the Cavs 46-39 in the first matchup and the two were even in the second matchup. A majority of that production came from Jarrett Allen who recorded double-doubles in both games.

Now with Tristan Thompson serving a 25-game suspension for PEDs, the team needs to look to add another frontcourt member.

There’s still a long way to go until the playoffs, but we’re starting to get a full understanding of who this team is.