Cavs: 3 big questions on Cleveland’s current West Coast trip

Big Question #1: Is Cleveland a legitimate playoff contender this season?

Yes, they are a playoff contender. They currently stand in the 6th spot in the playoff standing. There’s a lot of games to play, but as we speak this team is playing very well and they are figuring out how to close out games with better communication, good defense and inspired ball. That’s a winning mix and until you tell this young group of Cavaliers that they aren’t supposed to be here contending, don’t say anything.

You look at a team that the Wine and Gold are going to play on Saturday in the Phoenix Suns, who before these last two seasons were always losing as well. The Suns finished as the #2 seed a year ago in the Western Conference and made it to the NBA Finals where they lost to the Milwaukee Bucks.

Are the Cavaliers gearing for a Suns type of year? Just maybe they are. With a young core of talent and having a nice collection of veteran presence this season anything is possible.

The Cavs’ new rookie sensation Evan Mobley has been a big reason too for this resurgence of the team. His defensive skill set is outstanding. The way he has already been able to alter opponents’ shots on the defensive end of the floor is just awesome to behold. Jarrett Allen has been very consistent in his play as well. Collin Sexton has continued to score and is showing more confidence in his game every night. The thunderous dunk he put down early in the game at the Clippers was another example of that growing, winning way.

Just maybe that Lebron James shadow over this team is starting to fade. We are in year four since the team became known again as the Cleveland Cavaliers. It used to be Lebron’s team. Remember? Basketball is won by playing team ball and the Cavs now are doing that and winning.