3 reasons the Cleveland Cavaliers will finish the season strong

By Tony Pesta | Feb 13, 2019

CLEVELAND, OH - FEBRUARY 11: Collin Sexton #2 and Jordan Clarkson #8 of the Cleveland Cavaliers high five during the game against the New York Knicks on February 11, 2019 at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by David Liam Kyle/NBAE via Getty Images) /

3 of 4

Cleveland Cavaliers (Photo by David Liam Kyle/NBAE via Getty Images) /

2. Improved lineup

We have already mentioned how Sexton and Osman have begun to thrive as players, but now let’s look at the rest of the lineup.

One player that has been a consistent positive for the Cavs is Larry Nance Jr. Nance is really starting to come into his own as a player, averaging 13.3 rebounds and 12.7 points per game in his last six outings.

Nance is displaying a wide array of offensive talent that not many people thought he had. On Saturday against the Indiana Pacers, Nance connected on a career-high 3-of-5 shots from the 3-point line. The 3-point shot has become a real option for Nance as he is shooting 35.8 percent from deep, which is slightly above the league average of 35.4 percent.

Most importantly, Kevin Love has made his official return to the team. While he has played limited minutes in each of his appearances, it is certain he will have his minutes progressively increase as the season continues.

Love’s impact on the team should not be undervalued. He is the most talented scorer and rebounder on the team and likely would have been an All-Star this season if he had been healthy. With Love back in the lineup, the Cavaliers will be much stronger offensively.

Now, throw all of this in with the new additions of Brandon Knight and Marqueese Chriss, and the Cavaliers are building an interesting dynamic. Knight and Chriss are two players who have plenty of reasons to prove themselves and work towards redeeming their careers. I expect both of them to play hard every night if they care about getting back on track.

Home/Cleveland Cavaliers