Preseason Preview

The Cavs are atop the Eastern Conference as most expected. The real test for them will be in the playoffs. LeBron is carrying the team as usual, as the new edition of Shaq has been relatively lackluster. It looks like they might still need to make a trade for another scoring option to win the title. Their best asset is Shaq and his contract, but will they be willing to deal the big man for a valuable scoring threat?

Ready to Breakout vs. Reality: Jamario Moon has not been used much by the Cavs, and when he has been on the court, he hasn’t had the offensive impact some expected he might.

Over the Hill vs. Reality: Anthony Parker has started all 42 games for Cleveland and the Cavs have seemingly managed fine with him in the lineup, but he certainly hasn’t been lighting anyone on fire. Parker’s stats have dropped pretty much across the board. Meanwhile Shaq is having his worst season at 37, but the Cavs have been monitoring his minutes trying to keep him healthy come playoff time.

Worst Moment: Playing the Charlotte Bobcats. The Cavs have lost to the Bobcats in two of three games, and haven’t beaten them with their current roster. There is also a very good chance Cleveland meets Charlotte in the first round of the playoffs.

Best Moment: On Christmas the Cavs dismantled the Lakers in LA. Cleveland was more physical than LA and shut down everyone not named Kobe. Mo Williams was on fire, which they’ll need in the playoffs if they expect to win it all.

Best Case Scenario: A Championship which then leads to LeBron re-signing in Cleveland and staying there for life. Whether they can reach that goal with this current roster remains to be seen.

Worst Case Scenario: They make no changes and fail to make the finals for another season. LeBron then bolts in the summer and the people of Cleveland are left holding their head in their hands.

Trade Target: The Cavs need another scoring option. Antawn Jamison is the name that might make the most sense, but at the moment it appears the Cavs aren’t ready to make any big moves.

NBA Midseason Reports