David Liam Kyle/NBAE through Getty Photos
The Cleveland Cavaliers are reportedly eyeing a first-round matchup in opposition to the Brooklyn Nets as they search a deep postseason run.
“Nobody contained in the group would say this publicly—and so they should not,” Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com reported. “However a number of individuals I’ve spoken to not too long ago are privately hoping for a Brooklyn matchup.”
The Cavaliers entered Friday fourth within the Japanese Convention with a 44-28 report, whereas the Nets sit in sixth with a 39-31 mark. Cleveland would both want to maneuver as much as the No. 3 seed or hope Brooklyn climbs to No. 5 to make this matchup occur within the first spherical.
The Nets are definitely much less fearsome after buying and selling away perennial All-Stars Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving earlier than the commerce deadline. Ben Simmons additionally hasn’t performed since mid-February because of again and knee points.
Mikal Bridges has emerged as an offensive drive since coming from the Phoenix Suns, averaging 26.1 factors in 15 video games, however total the Nets are missing star energy.
The Cavaliers could be favored on this matchup as they shut a formidable 2022-23 season. Donovan Mitchell has elevated the group right into a legit contender whereas younger gamers like Evan Mobley, Jarrett Allen and Darius Garland proceed to enhance every season.
Whereas the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers all have way more playoff expertise, the Cavaliers are as gifted as anybody within the NBA.
In fact, the Cavs most likely should not be choosy about their postseason matchup after falling in need of the playoffs in every of the final 4 years. The Miami Warmth or New York Knicks may symbolize a harder first-round battle, however the gamers and followers needs to be proud of their spot it doesn’t matter what.
