CLEVELAND, Ohio — The Cleveland Cavaliers are evaluating their rotation strategy in light of recent performances, particularly the effectiveness of pairing Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley. In the latest episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, hosts Ethan Sands and Chris Fedor discussed whether the Cavaliers should refocus their game plan around this duo, which proved to be a cornerstone of last season’s success.
The Cavaliers recently secured a 108-100 victory against the Memphis Grizzlies, but the hosts expressed concern over the team’s overall performance. Fedor noted that the game revealed more about Memphis’ struggles, particularly as they were without key player Ja Morant for 42 minutes, rather than showcasing the Cavaliers’ strengths. He characterized the team as “stuck in the mud” and suggested they require a “mental reset” to rediscover their identity.
A significant factor in the Cavaliers’ inconsistent play has been the absence of Darius Garland, which has disrupted their style on both ends of the court. The team is struggling to establish a defensive identity. Known for their rim protection with Jarrett Allen and Mobley, the Cavaliers had to adapt their defensive strategy mid-game, shifting from a zone defense to a “switch-heavy” coverage to counter Memphis. While this adaptability was a positive sign, it also exposed vulnerabilities, as opposing teams have successfully pulled Allen and Mobley away from the basket.
The impact of rookie Nae’Qwan Tomlin has been noteworthy. Tomlin, who is on a two-way contract, has injected energy and effort into the team, with his minutes increasing due to necessity. His hustle and versatility have garnered praise from teammates, including Mitchell. Yet, Fedor raised a cautionary note, stating it is concerning for a championship-contending team to rely heavily on a rookie for energy.
The duo of Mitchell and Mobley remains crucial for the Cavaliers’ success. Fedor emphasized that Mobley’s performance serves as the key barometer for the team’s potential. The Cavaliers’ ascent last season was attributed to Mobley’s rise to All-NBA and Defensive Player of the Year levels. His inconsistency this season has contributed to the team’s struggles. Notably, Mobley’s strong fourth-quarter performance against Memphis, where he scored prolifically and played impactful defense, showcased the caliber of play the Cavaliers need from him consistently.
The podcast also pointed to the significance of Mobley’s partnership with Mitchell on the court. Their successful dynamic was apparent during the fourth quarter against Memphis, where Mobley thrived while playing alongside Mitchell. This raises questions about whether Coach Kenny Atkinson will prioritize this pairing as the season progresses, especially when the team regains full strength.
As the Cavaliers aim to solidify their identity, their reliance on both Mitchell and Mobley is evident. Fedor and Sands emphasized that the team must develop a more consistent play style, particularly on defense, to enhance their championship aspirations. The upcoming games, particularly against formidable opponents, will provide crucial tests for the Cavaliers as they work to find their footing.
As they navigate these challenges, the pressure will be on Mobley to elevate his game. The Cavaliers are looking for more than sporadic brilliance; they need sustained excellence to compete at the highest level. The path forward is clear: if Mobley can consistently deliver the performance that made him an emerging star, the Cavaliers could once again be a formidable force in the NBA.
