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The Cleveland Cavaliers had an excellent run last year, greatly exceeding expectations under the circumstances. LeBron James returned to the organization from a four-year hiatus playing in South Florida. Following his return James was even quoted as saying:
“I’m not promising a championship. I know how hard that is to deliver. We’re not ready right now. No way. Of course, I want to win next year, but I’m realistic. It will be a long process, much longer than it was in 2010. My patience will get tested. I know that.
To win the 2015-2016 NBA crown, there have to be some improvements and tweaks going into next season. We take a look at five ways the Cavaliers can improve next season.
5. Pace The King
LeBron James is entering his 13th season in the league. He has been playing close to 40 minutes per night his entire career and, contrary to popular belief, the guy is still not superhuman. With that being said, the Cavaliers have to get LeBron James some rest next year. David Griffin, the Cavaliers GM, feels the same way. They can go out and sign a solid small forward who can produce offensively and play defense to back-up LeBron James. Also, players like Iman Shumpert and J.R. Smith can consistently step-up off of the bench and this could realistically get James some rest. Whatever direction the Cavaliers decide to go, they have to accomplish this target. The goal is to get LeBron James playing under 36 minutes a night as this will pay huge dividends come playoff time.
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Mark Duncan | Associated Press
4. Re-Ignite The Love
There is a reason why the Cleveland Cavaliers re-signed Kevin Love to a 5-year, max deal. Regardless of his sub-par performance, based on his standards, he averaged 16 points and nine rebounds last year as a viable offensive weapon with his inside-out game. He used most of the season to figure out how he fits into the offense, but a full offseason and a long-term future with the Cavs could be just what the doctor ordered. He is a great passer out of the post and anywhere else on the floor – unparalleled even from 90-feet, and he is just too talented and versatile an offensive weapon to not get more touches. It will be interesting to see how the Cavaliers will get to accomplish this next year.
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Dennis Wierzbicki | USA Today Sports
3. Big Game Presence
This is pretty apparent as to which moment is being mentioned. That stage was the 2015 NBA Finals. Granted, injuries forced players that wouldn’t have had to play as large as a role to step up and fill the void left by Love and Irving. With a healthy lineup, the Cleveland Cavaliers are the favorites to win the NBA title next season. Next time around, everyone needs to step up to the magnitude of the moment and understand what plays to make in certain situations.
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David Richard l USA TODAY Sports
2. Blatt’s Continued Improvement
David Blatt did an excellent job last season. It was his first year as the Cleveland Cavaliers’ head coach and he handled it well. Coaching the best player on the planet helps your cause substantially, but it also comes along with a ton of pressure. However, he handled the entire season and situation like a champ. He makes some minor mistakes and has questionable play calling at times, but what coach doesn’t in his first year coaching the best player in the world? If Blatt continues to improve as a head coach and as someone whom LeBron James gives so much respect, nothing would hold the Cavs back.
Click ‘Next’ to see the Top Change The Cavs Must Do For Next Season
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5. #AllIn And More
This team sticks together and that is for certain. Some of the players this offseason could have taken the selfish approach and went to other teams for more money. However, they knew that what is being built in Cleveland is special. Teams with this much potential don’t come around too often. If they continue to do things the right way, look for this current team to become the next dynasty.