The Cleveland Cavaliers’ Historic Start: Is 11-0 the Beginning of Something Big?

The Cleveland Cavaliers are turning heads this season, blazing through their first 10 games with an undefeated record. Their 11-0 start has taken the league by storm, with dominant performances and a memorable 136-117 win over the Golden State Warriors. This incredible run isn’t just a surprise; it’s the best start in Cavs history, surpassing even seasons led by stars like LeBron James. Under new head coach Kenny Atkinson, Cleveland’s transformation has been remarkable. Their dominance isn’t just in the wins but in how they win. Could this be the year the Cavs break free from past disappointments and establish themselves as serious contenders? Let’s break down what’s different, what’s driving their success, and whether this start could signal a leap toward championship territory.

Are the Cavs’ Wins Real?

The Cavaliers’ start to the season has left everyone asking, “Is this for real?” Their win over the Warriors was a definitive statement, taking down Golden State’s powerful lineup quickly and jumping to an unbelievable 83-42 lead by halftime. This wasn’t an isolated case. The Cavs have already secured victories over other strong teams, including the New York Knicks and a depleted but dangerous New Orleans Pelicans squad led by Zion Williamson. Some critics might argue that wins over teams like the Raptors, Pistons, and Wizards were expected, but Cleveland didn’t just win—they dominated by a combined margin of 61 points. Even close victories over the Milwaukee Bucks highlight their resilience, as they held firm against clutch moments. With a mix of quality wins and undeniable dominance, the Cavs’ 10-0 record appears more than just a lucky streak; it’s a sign of actual growth.

What Sets This Team Apart?

Cleveland’s start this season feels worlds apart from the last few years. Despite a talented roster, the Cavs struggled with inconsistency, often hampered by injuries to key players like Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen. This season, however, the team is operating at a higher level under Atkinson. Their offensive rating has surged to first in the league, a staggering improvement from past seasons. The team’s effective field goal percentage has skyrocketed to 61.6%, positioning them among the most efficient scoring teams in recent NBA history. Unlike last year, when they leaned heavily on the bench, the core players are healthy and working seamlessly together, posting a remarkable +12.7 points per 100 possessions. The Cavs are taking fewer three-point attempts but hitting a stunning 42.7% of them, a percentage that might not last but demonstrates their current shooting prowess. This newfound efficiency sets a pace that even the top teams will struggle to keep up with.

Mitchell and Mobley’s Impact

Both Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley have played pivotal roles in Cleveland’s historic start, but they’re doing it differently than fans might expect. Mitchell’s stats are impressive but restrained—he’s averaging 22.6 points and playing just under 30 minutes per game, significantly less than in previous seasons. His efficiency hasn’t dipped, meaning Cleveland is getting the same All-Star caliber performance in fewer minutes. This reduced workload could be a game-changer come playoff time, preserving his energy for the games that matter most. Conversely, Mobley is stepping into a more significant role, with his usage rate climbing to 24.3%, the highest of his career. His already stellar defense has reached new heights, and while his three-point shooting remains a work in progress, his impact is undeniable. Mobley is delivering on the promise of his potential, and alongside Mitchell, the Cavs have a one-two punch that’s both effective and adaptable.

Can They Keep It Up?

The question on everyone’s mind is whether this dominance can translate to postseason success. Cleveland fans have experienced disappointment before, and comparisons to teams like the 2022-23 Sacramento Kings, who saw their historic offense falter in the playoffs, are valid. The Cavaliers’ defense, which forces turnovers and stifles opponent shooting, ranks among the league’s best, giving them an edge that could hold steady over a more extended season. Yet, the test lies in how they’ll fare against top teams like the Celtics and whether they can overcome the East’s heavyweights. While their offensive output might not be sustained at the current pace, Cleveland’s balance between explosive offense and solid defense suggests they are in an excellent position to compete. It’s early in the season, but if the Cavs can maintain even a fraction of their current form, a deep playoff run is not only possible but probable.