What the Cavs playoff rotation should look like
Kenny Atkinson will have to make some tough decisions with the lineup.
CLEVELAND, OHIO - APRIL 20: Max Strus #1 jokes with Jaylon Tyson #24 of the Cleveland Cavaliers gestures before game one of the first round of the Eastern Conference Playoffs against the Miami Heat at Rocket Arena on April 20, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) | Getty Images This is it.
The last eight years for the Cleveland Cavaliers will come down to the next eight weeks. From LeBron James leaving town that jumpstarted a rebuild featuring Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen. To acquiring Donovan Mitchell in 2022 to start their contention window.
To multiple playoff failures, including last year’s catastrophe against the Pacers. To Garland being traded for James Harden in February. This is without a doubt the most crucial, critical, important…you get the point.
There is a lot riding on this Cavs playoff run. They have arguably their deepest and most talented roster of the Mitchell era. They have the experience now with a battle-tested group that is adding someone with 174 playoff games of their own in Harden.