The Cleveland Cavaliers have made history with an incredible 15-0 start to the season, becoming just the fourth team in NBA history to achieve this milestone. Led by Darius Garland’s 25 points and Ty Jerome’s career-matching 24-point performance in place of the injured Donovan Mitchell, the Cavaliers secured a 128-114 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on Sunday night.
Elite Company for the Cavaliers
This historic start places the Cavs alongside elite teams such as the 2016 Golden State Warriors, 1994 Houston Rockets, and the 1949 Washington Capitols. Like these teams, Cleveland is aiming to make a deep playoff run. The Rockets went on to win the NBA Championship that season, and the Cavaliers have set their sights on replicating that success in 2024.
A New Standard for Cleveland Basketball
The Cavaliers’ dominance this season has set a new bar for Cleveland basketball. This 15-0 start surpasses even the LeBron James-led teams and the iconic 1980s-90s squads featuring Mark Price and Brad Daugherty. With a +12.3 point differential, Cleveland has proven unstoppable. The Cavs’ core of Garland, Mitchell, Jarrett Allen, and Evan Mobley has been the driving force behind this early success, showcasing exceptional chemistry and talent on both ends of the court.
Garland’s Breakout Fuels the Streak
Central to Cleveland’s success has been the breakout season of Darius Garland. After struggling with injuries and adjusting to Donovan Mitchell’s arrival last year, Garland has elevated his game to new heights. His scoring average has surged to 21.1 points per game, and his shooting efficiency has improved significantly—53.1% from the field and an impressive 45.8% from beyond the arc.
Next Test: Defending Champions Boston Celtics
Cleveland now faces a significant test on Tuesday against the defending Boston Celtics. With their perfect record on the line, the Cavaliers aim to continue their historic run and solidify their status as a legitimate title contender. The Cavs’ performance so far has made them one of the most exciting teams to watch this season, and the challenge against the Celtics will be another pivotal moment in their quest for NBA supremacy.