Cavaliers Shine: Star Player Unpacks the Joyful Spirit Fueling Their Stellar Season

Just two days prior to Christmas, the Cleveland Cavaliers hold the premier record in the NBA at 25-4.

On the offensive end, Cleveland tops the league in both field goal percentage (50.7%) and three-point percentage (40.5%), while also ranking third in three-pointers made per game (15.9). Defensively, the squad stands among the top-10 teams in the NBA for: opponent turnovers averaged per game (15.9, sixth), opponent field goal percentage (45.4%, seventh), and opponent scoring per game (110.1, ninth).

However, a key factor contributing to the Wine and Gold’s impressive performance early this season is their exceptional team chemistry.

Following the team’s 126-99 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers this past Saturday evening, Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell reflected on how the team culture has fostered such remarkable outcomes 29 games into the season.

“For us, we’ve got a group that, regardless of whether we start strong or poorly, we have an exceptional unit,” Mitchell stated. “I believe that’s truly where it initiates. It’s enjoyable to come into work, and that’s regardless of whether we win three in a row, lose three in a row, whatever the situation may be. It’s just enjoyable to come to work daily. That’s what really makes this group distinct, makes all of this distinctive.”

Cleveland has largely maintained its roster after making it to the Eastern Conference Semifinals last season.

The Wine and Gold only let go of two rotational players, Damian Jones and Marcus Morris Sr., a midseason acquisition. Despite bringing on Kenny Atkinson as their new head coach, the team extended contracts for Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen while also re-signing Tristan Thompson during free agency.

This level of continuity, paired with outstanding coaching from Atkinson and his team, has proven beneficial for the Cavaliers thus far. Additionally, these aspects have contributed to a remarkable and captivating start to the season, which likely has much more to unfold.

“It’s a long season; it will be challenging to enjoy every single day,” Mitchell mentioned. “But when you have a group of guys, and a person like Georges Niang, it’s never a tedious day with him. You understand what I mean? Similarly, Tristan Thompson, it’s the same scenario. With various individuals and diverse personalities, we have spent enough time together. It simplifies everything and makes it enjoyable.”