CLEVELAND — The Cavaliers are set to maintain their flawless record, as they prepare for an exciting matchup at “Boston Garden,” according to first-year coach Kenny Atkinson, who has led the team through an undefeated stretch thus far. “What’s better than that?” Atkinson remarked, emphasizing the significance of the upcoming game.
With an impressive 15-0 record following a 128-114 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on Sunday night, the Cavaliers aim to join an elite group of teams in NBA history who have achieved a 16-0 start. The task ahead involves facing the reigning champion Boston Celtics, who previously eliminated Cleveland from the playoffs last season.
“This is fantastic for the NBA, right?” Atkinson stated, noting the attention the game is sure to attract. “Everybody will be watching, and I can feel our team is excited. They definitely remember what happened last year. Both teams are performing well, which makes this matchup great for the league and our franchise.”
During the recent victory against the Hornets, the Cavaliers effectively managed without their All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell, who was rested for the game. They replicated their successful strategy that has placed them alongside historic teams like the Golden State Warriors (2015-16), Houston Rockets (1993-94), and Washington Capitols (1948-49) as the only franchises to begin a season 15-0.
Darius Garland emerged as a key player, scoring 25 points, while Ty Jerome contributed 24 points in Mitchell’s absence. The team also benefited from strong performances by Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, who combined for 44 points and 26 rebounds to secure the win against Charlotte.
The Cavs have not only extended their winning streak to unprecedented lengths but have also garnered excitement among Cleveland sports fans, especially during a football season where the Browns have struggled significantly. “The energy from the city is amazing,” commented Allen. “The support we’re getting from the fans is phenomenal. They come out to every game, cheering us on. It’s incredible how Cleveland has embraced us.”
However, the game wasn’t without its challenges, as both Isaac Okoro and Dean Wade suffered ankle injuries in the second half. Wade, who has started seven games this season, was seen leaving Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in a walking boot. Atkinson remains uncertain about their availability for the upcoming game against the Celtics, but expects Mitchell to return after his planned rest.
Mitchell was notably absent during the last two games of the previous year’s Eastern Conference semifinals, in which the Cavs were defeated by the Celtics, who went on to capture the championship. Allen, who missed that entire series due to a broken rib, is eager for this rematch and ready to gauge how his team stacks up against Boston.
“It’s a rematch,” Allen said. “We didn’t have all our players then, but now we do. I want to see how we can compete against them and test our current abilities.” Atkinson echoed this sentiment, recognizing the matchup as a valuable opportunity for the Cavaliers to evaluate their title aspirations against one of the league’s top teams.
“This will be an excellent test for us,” he mentioned. “The Celtics play a unique style with a focus on shooting, so we’re excited to measure ourselves against them. With our current record, it’s a great moment to challenge ourselves and determine what adjustments we need to make moving forward.”
In summary, Cleveland’s upcoming game at Boston is not only a huge moment for the franchise’s early season but also a significant test against a formidable opponent, as the Cavaliers look to continue their impressive run.