Spencer German and Spencer Davies dissect the Cleveland Cavaliers' struggles, revealing key takeaways from their latest loss to the Chicago Bulls and the path forward.
Spencer German and Spencer Davies break down the Cleveland Cavaliers' latest loss to the Chicago Bulls and discuss what stood out strategically, good and bad, in their latest postgame edition of Courtside with Cavs.
Topics of the latest show include the following:
- The Cleveland Cavaliers didn't get the job done once again on Friday night against the Chicago Bulls, losing the season series with their NBA Central Division foe after allowing 136 points at Rocket Arena. It was the third game they've dropped to the Bulls, who stylistically give the wine-and-gold a ton of problems.
- Despite Cleveland finding an offensive rhythm in both the half-court and transition, its fastbreak defense was atrocious. There is more than just effort going on with this; it is a strategic push and pull. Should the team be crashing the glass as hard as it is, or should players get back to stop the ball and opponents who leak like Chicago?
- This was the first time we've heard Cavs head coach Kenny Atkinson and his guys have different feelings on tactics. While there is no locker room mutiny afoot, it was interesting to hear Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen's thoughts on the coaching staff's emphasis on getting on the offensive boards versus making sure somebody is dropping to limit opponents' transition chances. Both believe the half-court defense is making progress, too.
- Sam Merrill has been out for some time, but it looks like Cleveland is going to get him back in the fold on Monday night against the Charlotte Hornets. Merrill's meaning to this team goes beyond the shooting piece; his off-ball movement and ability to make defenders chase him is critical. Let's not forget that he's good at moving his feet defensively and takes charges.
- The Eastern Conference is a giant mess, as all but the New York Knicks and Detroit Pistons have double-digit losses. There's a lot of basketball left to be played, even with a poor start to the season in Cleveland.
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To watch our last episode, click here.