Overview

• The Cavaliers ended their season with a disappointing loss to the Pacers in the Eastern Conference semifinals, despite earning the East's top seed and 64 wins.
• Koby Altman, the team’s president of basketball operations, emphasized the need for a mentally and physically tougher roster to meet heightened expectations.
• Evan Mobley, named Defensive Player of the Year and an All-Star, is seen as the franchise cornerstone, with the team pushing for further offensive growth from him.
• Re-signing free agent Ty Jerome and adding veteran depth will be challenging, as Cleveland operates above both salary cap aprons, though ownership has not restricted luxury-tax spending.
• Coach Kenny Atkinson, in his first year, led the team to a 16-win improvement, setting the stage for a new phase of elevated playoff ambitions.