Now that the obstacles to the Boston Celtics – Cleveland Cavaliers NBA trade has been consummated, the next question for the latter is when isaiah thomas would be fit and ready to play. “IT” is dealing with a hip injury and there is no actual timetable for when he would return.
As most know, the Cavs got additional compensation for that with a 2020 second round pick. Also included in the deal were Jae Crowder, Ante Zizic and the Brooklyn Nets’ 2018 first-round pick. Aware they need to plug the hole at the point guard position, will the initial absence of Thomas matter to Cleveland?
Some pundits think otherwise.
Cavs still about LeBron James
Looking ahead, the most important thing for the Cavs right now is still LeBron James. For as long as the “King” is healthy, Cleveland should do just fine.
According to the Ringer, LeBon and head coach, Tyronn Lue was cold on the deal for Thomas. Though management intended to try and add components to compete with the Warriors, it seems neither was convinced the deal was enough to accomplish that.
Despite having one of the talented rosters last season, the Cavs succumbed to a well-oiled Golden State Warriors team. The task of dealing with the Dubs got harder with the entry of Kevin Durant.
However, the real key to the Warriors success is chemistry.
They still have their big three (Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green), all knowing their roles. Hence, the Cavs issues may have been more on blending and defined roles rather than getting in star players to the mix.
Things got tougher for the Cavs
With Kyrie Irving apparently upset playing second fiddle, the haul of new talent may not be enough to place the Cavs atop the Eastern Conference.
They are bound to reach the NBA playoffs because of James, but there is no telling on how far.
While most criticize the roster, pressure should be directed at Tyronn Lue. James thinks highly of him, so Lue will have to prove that he can lead the Cavs to success – regardless of who he has in the lineup.
The Warriors were virtually unknowns before Steve Kerr had them humming.
The champion coach did have his share of struggles last season, including how to fit Durant in the mix. He was able to do that in time, and most know how that led to the NBA title.
For the Cavs, Lue needs to do something similar. If he can prove that the team can be prominent less of its former star players, Cleveland should be fine. If he fails to do so, expect Cavaliers fans to pour on the heat and question his legitimacy as the right head coach for the squad.
