Cavaliers’ Christmas wish list: injury miracles, shooting revival, and blockbuster trade offer
The holiday season in the NBA is synonymous with thrilling matchups and festive excitement, but for the Cleveland Cavaliers, this year’s Christmas will be a bit quieter. While they won’t grace the national stage on December 25th, it’s still a crucial time for the organization. As the Cavaliers navigate a season that’s beginning to unravel, they should be crafting their own wish list, hoping for some holiday miracles to turn their fortunes around.
Injury updates that bring cheer
Injuries have cast a long shadow over the Cavaliers this season, derailing their hopes and ambitions. Darius Garland and Max Strus entered the year hampered by significant injuries, with Strus yet to make his season debut. Garland, meanwhile, has struggled to find his rhythm while not fully healthy. The injury bug has also claimed Jarrett Allen, Larry Nance Jr., Sam Merrill, and Lonzo Ball, all of whom have missed multiple games. Most recently, the absence of Evan Mobley for the next few weeks has deepened the team’s woes.
With every injury update that emerges from Cleveland, the outlook seems to dim further. Thus, the Cavaliers’ most fervent wish this holiday season is to receive some encouraging news. Whether it’s a player making a surprising recovery or Garland inching closer to full strength, any positive development could ignite hope in a season that desperately needs it.
A revival on the perimeter
Three-point shooting has been a significant area of concern for the Cavaliers, as they currently rank among the bottom teams in the league with a mere 33% shooting rate from beyond the arc. This disappointing statistic can be attributed to a blend of poor shot selection, absent key shooters, and a general downturn in performance.
Cleveland’s aspirations for a successful season hinge on their ability to improve their shooting percentage. The return of players like Merrill and Strus could provide a much-needed boost, while midseason trades might introduce fresh talent to enhance their offensive arsenal. Coach Kenny Atkinson will be crucial in devising strategies to elevate the team’s shooting efficiency, particularly in high-stakes games where every point counts.
The need for a game-changing trade
As the season unfolds, if the Cavaliers find themselves unable to maintain consistent victories, a shift in strategy may be on the horizon. With one of the highest payrolls in the league and limited future draft assets, the Cavaliers could become active sellers as they reassess their roster.
One player generating buzz in trade discussions is De’Andre Hunter, who has recently found himself benched in favor of the emerging Jaylon Tyson. Hunter’s potential value in the trade market could attract attention from teams seeking to bolster their depth. Additionally, Garland and Allen are also part of trade conversations, although their trade value has been impacted by injuries and inconsistent play.
Cleveland’s wish list should include the hope that another team might overvalue one of their players, allowing the Cavaliers to execute a trade that could yield significant returns. Such a deal could either provide immediate help for this season or set the stage for a brighter future.
As the Cavaliers enter this holiday season, they have much to ponder. Injuries, shooting woes, and potential trades loom large, but with some luck and strategic decision-making, they might just find the holiday spirit they desperately seek.
