Mitchell leads Cavs pursuit of NBA Finals for first time since 2018

The Cleveland Cavaliers, aiming for their first NBA Finals appearance since 2018, have positioned themselves as Eastern Conference favorites. Last season, they posted a remarkable 64-18 record but fell to the Indiana Pacers in the conference semifinals. Donovan Mitchell, driven to advance beyond the second round for the first time in his nine-year career, leads the team alongside a strong supporting cast, including Evan Mobley, Jarrett Allen, and Darius Garland. Coach Kenny Atkinson stresses the need for improvement during the regular season, even as the team hopes to quickly transition to the playoffs. The Cavaliers' offseason acquisitions, including Lonzo Ball and Thomas Bryant, enhance their depth, particularly in the frontcourt.

However, injuries to key players like Garland and Max Strus could impact their performance early on. Mobley, the reigning NBA Defensive Player of the Year, is expected to make significant strides offensively this season. With championship odds set at 7. 5-1, the Cavaliers are poised for a strong campaign.