Despite the fact that they’ve been struggling to find a rhythm as of late, Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Tyronn Lue is remaining confident that the team will make the cut for this year’s playoffs.
The Cavs have been to three consecutive NBA Finals — one of which resulted in their first championship in franchise history. This season, however, they’re having a hard time staying within striking distance of the top teams in the Eastern Conference. Currently, they’re ranked 1st in the Central Division, but 3rd in the East overall — 7.5 games behind the conference-leading Boston Celtics.
“You’re not that far out of not making it (to the Playoffs),” a reporter said to coach Lue after Monday morning’s practice session in Orlando. “Like five games or something. It’s too early to look at that, right?”
“Yes, ma’am,” coach Lue replied with respect. “I don’t think we’ll be knocked out of the Playoffs, no.”
Joe Vardon of Cleveland.com then mentioned that the Cavs are just five games up on the 9th-seeded team in the Eastern Conference. Coach Lue maintained his stance.
“Is it safe to still take the Playoffs for granted?,” Vardon asked coach Lue.
“Yeah,” coach Lue said. “I mean, we’re still gonna make the Playoffs. There is no doubt about that. We feel confident in that, for sure.”
The Cavs have lost eight of their last twelve games, including Saturday night’s 120-88 debacle against the Houston Rockets. Needless to say, they’ll need to play better. Their first shot a redemption comes on Tuesday night, as they’re scheduled to face off against the Orlando Magic inside the Amway Center. Tip-off is set for 7:00 p.m. EST with Fox Sports Ohio and Fox Sports Florida having live broadcast coverage.
