What or who is to blame for the unexpected start to the season for the Cavaliers? Well, we can narrow it down to two things: the coaching and injuries. But which one has caused more damage? When was the last time we had most players active? Does our game plan need a change? Let’s find out.
To start things off, let’s talk about one thing we unfortunately know a lot about: injuries. Our core four players (Donovan, Darius, Mobley and Allen) this season have missed a combined total of 30 games. Not to mention that Sam Merrill hasn’t played since Nov 17. Sam Merrill has not played in over a month. There is also Max Strus, who has yet to play at all this season. This, along with our playoff performance last year, really shows just how much we depend on our core. Without them all playing together, we fall apart. These guys have shown that they can play, but unfortunately, they are putting up great numbers on their own. On Dec 19th’s loss to the Bulls, Darius Garland had a great game, returning to where he normally is. In that game, he put up 35 points and dished out eight assists. But unfortunately, with only 10 active players that game to work with and no Mobley or Mitchell, the Cavs got tired.
Then there is the other side, the coaches. This one is a little harder to see during a game, but there clearly are things happening behind the scenes, or in this case, the lack thereof. Compared to last season, Evan Mobley has become a shell of himself and isn’t showing the same defensive intensity as before. He seems to be constantly on cruise control, never showing any effort. Not only that, but his free-throw percentage has gone down from 72.5% to 64.0% which is absolutely absurd. So why does this apply to the coaches? Because they are allowing this to continue. So far this season, our numbers should be through the roof, but it would appear half the team has become complacent. The coaches need to have a serious conversation with the team about effort. And if you can’t perform like a starter, then you don’t get to be one. What some of these guys need is tough love.
So is it the fault of coaches or unlucky injuries? Unfortunately, it may be a while before we know for sure. As for right now, something has to change.
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