Positives, negatives for Cleveland Cavaliers so far
By Tony Pesta
Positive: Starting five
The starting lineup for the Cleveland Cavaliers has been nothing short of impressive. There is no doubt that the team is at their best with Collin Sexton, Darius Garland, Cedi Osman, Tristan Thompson and Kevin Love on the floor.
Thompson, Sexton and Love are all averaging above 15 points per game. This trio’s scoring is infectious and has opened the floor for the rest of the team.
We have already spoken about Love and Thompson’s production, but it is Sexton who is truly showing potential for greatness. The Young Bull is scoring 17.3 points per game and has connected on 7-of-16 attempts from deep.
He and Garland have had flashes of chemistry. The two guards can one day grow to be interchangeable and can score in bunches.
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Garland is still passive as a rookie. He has rarely taken shots outside of the rhythm of the offense. However, he occasionally feels comfortable enough to take over. In these cases, his dazzling ball-handling abilities and step-back 3-point shot have been utterly impressive.
Garland is as smooth as they come and once he begins to work outside of his comfort zone we will see a player with high scoring capabilities.
Last, but not least, Osman has acted as a glue guy for the lineup. Osman is averaging just 8.0 points per game, but improves the teams offensive net rating by a whopping 35.5 when he is on the court.
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The most intriguing part is these five will have all season to work on their chemistry. Once they hit their stride, this will be an exciting team to watch.