The Cleveland Cavaliers have kicked off a promising start since acquiring James Harden from the Los Angeles Clippers, boasting a 3-0 record. While their victory over the Denver Nuggets on the road was impressive, wins against the struggling Sacramento Kings and Washington Wizards have left some critics wanting more proof of their prowess.
ESPN's Tim Bontemps voiced his skepticism on The Hoop Collective, suggesting that while Harden is undoubtedly an upgrade, the Cavaliers' recent 12-2 run may not fully reflect their capabilities due to the level of competition faced.
The Cavaliers won't have to wait long to address these doubts. Their post-All-Star break schedule presents a series of matchups that could solidify their status as legitimate contenders.
First up is a game against the Brooklyn Nets, which may not turn many heads. However, the real intrigue begins with a showdown against the red-hot Charlotte Hornets, who have won nine of their last ten games. This matchup will serve as a precursor to their biggest test yet.
On February 22, the Cavaliers will face the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder. Cleveland will be eager to demonstrate growth since their last encounter, which ended in a tough loss at home.
Following that, the Cavaliers have a challenging stretch with games against the New York Knicks on February 24, the Milwaukee Bucks on February 25, and the Detroit Pistons on February 27. These matchups, particularly against the Knicks and Bucks, will be crucial in assessing how the Cavaliers measure up in the Eastern Conference.
With Evan Mobley's return on the horizon, the Cavaliers are poised to see how their new lineup truly gels. Although integrating a player like Harden takes time, his readiness to adapt and contribute could accelerate the process.
While the ultimate judgment will come in the NBA Playoffs, this upcoming schedule offers a valuable opportunity for the Cavaliers to prove their mettle and gain momentum heading into the postseason.