Here are five bold predictions for the 2026-27 Cleveland Cavaliers season.
The Cleveland Cavaliers will be looking for more success in the 2026-27 season after reaching the Eastern Conference Finals last year.
Cleveland added more talent to the roster, bringing in defensive star Peyton Watson. The Cavaliers still have Donovan Mitchell, James Harden, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen, giving them a solid core four.
Even though the Cavaliers are viewed as likely the third or fourth best team in the East this season, they will find a way to finish top-two during the regular season. The New York Knicks may ease up on the regular season a little after winning the title, and the Philadelphia 76ers could rest guys throughout the year.
This leaves a top-two spot open for the Cavaliers. Cleveland sets themselves up well with home-court advantage for most of the East playoffs.
2. Donovan Mitchell wins MVP award, averages 30 points per game
Much like last season, the talk around the NBA MVP award will be centered on games played. Due to a new rule, players have to play in 65 games to be considered for awards.
This year, we will see more load management than ever from teams across the league. But not from the Cavaliers, giving Mitchell a chance to win his first MVP honor, with him averaging 30 points per game.
3. Evan Mobley averages two blocks per game
Since coming into the NBA, Mobley has been one of the better defenders. While Mobley won't win the Defensive Player of the Year honor, he will still put together a special season for Cleveland.
Mobley has averaged close to two blocks a game in each of the last two years. But in 2026-27, he finally reaches the mark.
4. James Harden Doesn't Fall Short in Playoffs
Harden is one of the best offensive players in league history, but historically, he's seen trouble in the playoffs. But not this season.
The Cavaliers guard will get over his playoff nightmares, helping propel Cleveland.
5. Cavaliers Win Eastern Conference, Make NBA Finals
Despite the East being much stronger this season, the Cavaliers still should have a say in how the playoffs go. After getting to the conference finals last season, the Cavaliers will go further this year, reaching the NBA Finals.
Cleveland has a strong roster, and eventually someone has to give for this team, right? This could be the year for the Cavaliers to make the NBA Finals, but whether they win remains up in the air.
