The NBA Season is back! Just like your favorite superhero story, the NBA brings fun, entertainment, and a lot of uncanny subplots to unpack. That’s why NBA.com Philippines decided to preview the new season comic-book style. We pick out fantastic characters that will take the stage and new amazing arcs to watch out for. Bang! Pow! Boom! Let’s go!
What’s their superpower?
More often than not, the biggest superpower a team can have is having its own superstar. That’s what the Cavaliers have had since acquiring Donovan Mitchell last season. Mitchell enjoyed his best scoring output last year with 28.3 points per game. He was brought to Cleveland to add significant firepower and he accomplished that in just his first year.
The Cavs added more weapons during the offseason in Max Strus and Georges Niang. You’re talking about way better shooting from the perimeter, allowing more breathing room in the paint for Mitchell as well as their bigs.
What’s their kryptonite?
The Cavs were exposed during last year’s first-round exit against the New York Knicks. You may blame their disappointing finish to lack of experience playing together but they also couldn’t match up well to the Knicks’ gritty style.
The development of Evan Mobley will be critical for the team’s success. If other teams aren’t intimidated by Cleveland’s length with Mobley and fellow mammoth Jarett Allen, then they will have the same problems as the season rolls along. Mobley is entering Year 3 and a lot is expected of him to take that next step.
Who is their biggest hero?
If it isn’t clear enough, it’s Spida. Donovan Mitchell has raised the bar in Cleveland and now it’s just a matter of getting playoff victories with him.
Who is their biggest villain?
The Cavaliers are still on their honeymoon stage. Before Mitchell came in, they already had a feel-good story with their innovative tall lineup that earned them a Play-In slot. Though more was expected last year and a first-round exit was a disappointment, these are all parts of the growing pains of a franchise navigating its way back to relevancy.
How does their story play out?
The Cavaliers have all the tools to make another playoff run. If they can peak at the right time, a semifinal berth should be within reach. As long as they remain healthy, their roster should be enough to make waves in the East.
