The Cavaliers marked a significant milestone, becoming the first team since the Golden State Warriors in the 2015-16 season to launch the season with 13 consecutive victories. That Warriors team set the record for the most wins to begin a season, finishing with 24 straight.
Cleveland now joins a select group as just the sixth team in NBA/BAA history to kick off the season 13-0. Of the previous five teams that achieved this feat, four advanced to the championship series. This achievement also equaled Cleveland’s franchise record for consecutive wins, which was previously reached three times in 2009, 2010, and 2017, all during LeBron James’ tenure with the team.
“It’s an 82-game season, and we’re only 13 games in,” remarked guard Darius Garland, who led the game with 25 points. “There are still many aspects we need to improve on, but having these wins is beneficial. We currently have a good balance because we recognize that there’s still room for growth, even as we remain undefeated.”
The Cavaliers’ success is attributed to their effective ball movement and scoring abilities. On the night of their victory against Philadelphia, six players from Cleveland — Mitchell, Garland, Evan Mobley, Jarrett Allen, Caris LeVert, and Ty Jerome — entered the game averaging double figures in scoring.
Mitchell emphasized the importance of teamwork, stating, “We’ve all played many games, and exhaustion can set in mentally and physically. However, it’s essential to continue performing the little things for one another. That’s what it takes to win on nights like these.”
The matchup against a decimated Philadelphia squad became more challenging than anticipated, as the 76ers were without stars Joel Embiid and Paul George due to knee maintenance, Tyrese Maxey, who was dealing with a hamstring strain, and backup center Andre Drummond, who was out with an illness. This situation only underscored the pressure carried by the Cavaliers due to their winning streak.
“If you’re the Sixers coming in, you’re thinking, ‘We could end the streak,’” remarked Kenny Atkinson, Cleveland’s first-year coach. “That kind of thought definitely motivates players and staff when there’s a chance to take down an opponent.”
Rookie Jared McCain turned in a standout performance, scoring a career-high 34 points and narrowing the gap to just three points with over three minutes remaining in the game. Garland praised his contribution, saying, “He came out and showed that he’s got talent. He’s keen on securing his place on that team. It was a strong showing for all of us.”
As the game progressed, Mitchell caught fire, finishing with 11 points in the last three minutes, narrowly missing his first career triple-double. “He hit some crucial step-back threes,” Atkinson noted. “We can overlook the missed triple-double.”
Following a scheduled day off on Thursday, the Cavaliers will face the Chicago Bulls at home on Friday and the Charlotte Hornets on Sunday. They will then confront a significant challenge with a game against the defending NBA champion Boston Celtics on Tuesday.
Atkinson expressed confidence in his players, stating, “We have a calm and mature group that manages to keep emotions in check. They are humble and don’t seem to be influenced by external praise. Donovan always reminds the team that there’s still work to do, so they remain focused on what’s next and continue to play with that edge.”