4 key takeaways from Cavaliers Game 5, series-ending L to Knicks

Takeaway No. 2: Stagnant offense

With a young roster, it is expected that a primary driving force is constant movement both on and off the ball; yet, the Cavaliers ranked dead last in the regular season in pace. The Cavaliers became mechanical on the offensive end, giving the Knicks the chance to break down their chances and force bad passes and panicked shots.

Whether Cleveland ran isolation play after isolation play or simply rushed a contested shot attempt, it was clear that the Cavs coaching staff did not diversify their approach going into the postseason. With two star guards at the helm and a rising star in Evan Mobley, the Cavaliers have no excuse to play hero ball the majority of the game.

In Game 5, the Cavaliers began to mount a late comeback thanks to ball movement and making the extra pass. Shots were falling, New York was racing to keep up.

This momentum did not last, though, as the Cavaliers returned to their predictable offensive schemes and let the Knicks rebuild their double digit advantage. Cleveland’s flashes of energy were possibly the most devastating element of the game, as at their best it was plainly obvious that the Cavaliers were capable of being the better team. They were able to win each game, especially this one.

Lackluster offensive plans fall onto coaching, and it will be necessary next season that these energetic, dynamic attacks become commonplace for the Cleveland Cavaliers. J.B. Bickerstaff’s leadership was tested by Tom Thibodeau, and this time he fell short. Just like Allen and Mobley, these lingering weaknesses must be addressed.