Podcast Summary: The Ringer NBA Show – Cavs Pod! Why Cleveland Is Our Team of the Season. Plus, a Sit-Down With Jarrett Allen. | Group Chat

Release Date: April 3, 2025
Host/Author: The Ringer NBA Show – Group Chat segment with Justin Variano, Wosny Lambre (Big Waz), and Rob Mahoney
Guest: Jared Allen, Cleveland Cavaliers Center

Introduction

In this episode of The Ringer NBA Show, the Group Chat team—Justin Variano, Wosny Lambre (Big Waz), and Rob Mahoney—delve deep into why the Cleveland Cavaliers (Cavs) have emerged as their Team of the Season. This honor marks the Cavs’ first time receiving this accolade, underscoring their surprising and impressive performance throughout the NBA season. The discussion culminates with an insightful interview with Jared Allen, the Cavs’ starting center, providing an insider’s perspective on the team’s success.

Why the Cleveland Cavaliers?

Rob Mahoney:
“We are doing for the first time to kick off award season, our team of the season... some combination of different criteria. The secret sauce... one team for one pod.”
[00:00 - 02:05]

After recognizing the Cavs as their team of the season, the hosts explore the multifaceted reasons behind this choice, emphasizing that it's not just about being the best, but also about representing something larger within the league.

Top Five Reasons for Cavs’ Success

1. Kenny Atkinson’s Coaching and Offensive Transformation

Rob Mahoney:
“I think it just has to be Kenny Atkinson's effect on the offense... players buying into those ideas.”
[06:30 - 07:58]

Kenny Atkinson’s coaching has been pivotal in redefining the Cavs’ offensive strategy. Under his guidance, the team has shifted from being ranked 16th in offense last year to boasting the best offense in the league this season. Atkinson emphasized ball movement and offensive flow, transforming the Cavs into one of the lowest turnover teams by avoiding set defenses and encouraging dynamic play.

Big Waz:
“Donovan Mitchell buy-in... believing in the vision for the future.”
[07:58 - 08:31]

Donovan Mitchell’s commitment to Atkinson’s system has been crucial. His willingness to adapt and prioritize team success over personal statistics has allowed the Cavs to maximize their collective potential.

2. Evan Mobley’s Ascendancy

Big Waz:
“Mobley's ascension into Superstardom... providing balance to the offense.”
[18:25 - 20:34]

Evan Mobley has emerged as a cornerstone for the Cavs, showcasing versatility and defensive prowess. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting while dominating the paint provides the necessary balance to the Cavs’ offense, enabling more fluid and efficient playmaking from the guards.

Rob Mahoney:
“He’s almost a Swiss army knife... defensively and offensively versatile.”
[20:34 - 24:49]

Mobley’s multifaceted game forces defenses to continually adapt, creating opportunities for his teammates and enhancing the overall offensive efficiency of the Cavs.

3. Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland Synergy

Justin Variano:
“The synergy between Mitchell and Garland... plus 10.4 net rating this year.”
[13:28 - 14:36]

The dynamic partnership between Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland has been a game-changer. Their improved chemistry on the court has elevated the Cavs’ performance, with Garland’s playmaking complementing Mitchell’s scoring ability, resulting in a significant boost in the team’s net rating.

Big Waz:
“Mitchell’s willingness to step back and empower his teammates.”
[14:36 - 17:35]

Mitchell’s evolution from a primary scorer to a facilitator has allowed Garland to flourish, fostering a more collaborative and efficient offensive system.

4. Depth and Versatility

Rob Mahoney:
“They have real depth for the first time in the history of this core.”
[26:27 - 27:44]

The Cavs boast a robust bench, featuring players like Ty Jerome, DeAndre Hunter, and Max Strus, who provide significant contributions off the bench. This depth allows the Cavs to maintain high performance levels throughout the grueling NBA season without over-relying on their starters.

Justin Variano:
“Ty Jerome's emergence as one of the best backup point guards in the league.”
[27:44 - 32:16]

Ty Jerome’s role as a dynamic shooter and efficient playmaker has been instrumental in maintaining the Cavs’ offensive momentum during rotations, while DeAndre Hunter’s defensive capabilities further bolster the team’s versatility.

5. Health and Continuity

Rob Mahoney:
“All four of Cleveland's core guys are going to cross the 65 game threshold this season.”
[32:43 - 34:29]

The Cavs have enjoyed a notably healthy season, with minimal injuries to their core players. This continuity has been a significant factor in their consistent performance and ability to develop deep team chemistry over the season.

Justin Variano:
“Depth matters so much more in the regular season than ever before.”
[34:29 - 35:19]

Maintaining the health of key players has allowed the Cavs to sustain their high level of play, securing a top position in the standings and ensuring that their best players are ready for the playoffs.

Team Building and Strategic Moves

Rob Mahoney:
“Small market model... draft very well and pick your spots wisely.”
[35:28 - 39:43]

The Cavs’ strategic team-building approach has revolved around drafting standout talents like Darius Garland and Evan Mobley, and making shrewd trades to acquire Donovan Mitchell and Jared Allen. This mix of drafting all-stars and enhancing the roster through targeted trades has laid the foundation for their successful season.

Big Waz:
“Drafting two all-stars and trusting in their development.”
[37:13 - 39:43]

By focusing on continuity and nurturing their young core, the Cavs have created a sustainable model of growth, avoiding premature roster disruptions and ensuring that their key players can develop their skills within a supportive system.

Superlatives and Highlights

Team MVP: Evan Mobley vs. Donovan Mitchell
Big Waz:
“Evan Mobley does more for the team than anybody else.”
[53:10 - 53:24]

Justin Variano:
“Donovan Mitchell is the team’s MVP.”
[52:55 - 53:10]

The discussion reveals a split in opinions on the team MVP, with Evan Mobley and Donovan Mitchell both being strong contenders due to their significant contributions on both ends of the court.

Best Moment of the Season: Boston Comeback
Big Waz & Rob Mahoney:
“February 28th game against the Celtics... 25 to 3 after five minutes.”
[53:30 - 54:39]

The Cavs’ triumphant comeback against the Boston Celtics stands out as a defining moment, showcasing their resilience and ability to execute under pressure, solidifying their dominance over one of the league’s toughest opponents.

Coach of the Year: Kenny Atkinson
Rob Mahoney:
“Kenny Atkinson deserves Coach of the Year.”
[55:33 - 56:18]

Atkinson’s innovative coaching strategies and ability to maximize his roster’s potential have earned him widespread recognition as a deserving candidate for Coach of the Year.

Executive of the Year: Colby Altman
Big Waz:
“Colby Altman deserves Executive of the Year.”
[55:38 - 56:18]

Colby Altman’s astute management, including key acquisitions and maintaining team continuity, has been integral to the Cavs’ successful season.

Interview with Jared Allen

Opening Remarks:

Justin Variano:
“Jared Allen joins us to discuss the Cavs’ historic season.”
[69:12 - 69:41]

Jared Allen provides an inside look into the factors contributing to the Cavs’ success, highlighting team continuity, coaching, and player development.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Team Continuity and Locker Room Chemistry:
   “Continuity has been key... everyone knows each other and is having fun.”
   [70:03 - 71:16]

   Allen emphasizes the importance of team chemistry and rapport off the court, which translate into cohesive and motivated play on the court.

2. Impact of Coaching and Offensive Strategy:
   “Kenny Atkinson has been excellent... elevating the team’s offense.”
   [71:17 - 73:35]

   He credits Atkinson’s offensive adjustments and the players' buy-in for the Cavs’ transformation into a high-octane offensive team.

3. Player Development and Roles:

   • Evan Mobley:
     “Evan’s growth has been phenomenal... playing positionless basketball.”
     [72:26 - 73:35]

     Mobley’s versatility and aggressive playstyle have been pivotal to the Cavs’ adaptability and efficiency.

   • Donovan Mitchell:
     “Mitchell is adapting to a more team-oriented role, prioritizing assists over individual scoring.”
     [73:35 - 77:19]

     Mitchell’s evolution into a facilitator has enhanced team dynamics, allowing other players to thrive.

4. Strategic Additions and Team Building:
   “DeAndre Hunter seamlessly integrated, enhancing both defense and offense.”
   [80:26 - 81:01]

   Hunter’s defensive prowess and fit within the team’s system have bolstered the Cavs’ overall performance.

5. Handling Trade Rumors and Team Stability:
   “Maintaining team stability amidst trade rumors has been crucial.”
   [78:27 - 80:09]

   Allen discusses the importance of staying focused and resilient despite external distractions and potential roster changes.

Personal Insights:

• Hobbies and Interests:
  “Jared enjoys reading, particularly science fiction and architecture, and is a proud cat owner.”
  [83:07 - 89:45]

  Allen shares his personal interests, emphasizing a well-rounded life beyond basketball.

• Cultural Reflections:
  “Embracing diverse interests has helped him stay true to himself while excelling in his career.”
  [90:07 - 92:24]

  He reflects on the challenges of being perceived as eclectic in the NBA and the importance of authenticity.

Final Thoughts and Predictions

The hosts wrap up with their thoughts on the Cavs’ future prospects and potential playoff scenarios.

Rob Mahoney:
“Can they replicate their regular-season success in the playoffs, especially against the Celtics?”
[66:11 - 66:41]

Justin Variano:
“The key question is whether the Cavs can overcome a powerhouse like the Celtics in a high-stakes playoff environment.”
[67:35 - 69:00]

The consensus is that while the Cavs have built a formidable team capable of challenging the best, their true test lies in navigating the playoffs against established elites like the Boston Celtics.

Conclusion

The Cleveland Cavaliers have defied expectations this season through strategic team-building, exceptional coaching, player development, and maintaining team health and depth. As the Cavs gear up for the postseason, their ability to sustain this momentum and overcome top-tier opponents will determine their final standing. The episode concludes with Jared Allen’s insights, reinforcing the Cavs’ promising trajectory and the factors that have contributed to their remarkable success.

Notable Quotes:

• Rob Mahoney:
  “This is the kind of NBA story that changes the way you look at team building.”
  [04:43]

• Big Waz:
  “Evan Mobley's assist numbers might not look staggering, but his overall impact is undeniable.”
  [12:03]

• Jared Allen:
  “Continuity has been key... everyone knows each other and is having fun.”
  [70:03]

• Jared Allen:
  “Donovan Mitchell is adapting to a more team-oriented role, prioritizing assists over individual scoring.”
  [73:35]

Key Takeaways:

• The Cleveland Cavaliers have exceeded preseason expectations by implementing a cohesive and dynamic offensive strategy under Coach Kenny Atkinson.
• Donovan Mitchell’s willingness to adapt and share the playmaking load has been instrumental in the Cavs’ success.
• Evan Mobley’s versatility has transformed the Cavs into a balanced and efficient team, capable of outmaneuvering defenses.
• The team’s depth and health have allowed them to maintain high performance levels throughout the season, setting a strong foundation for the playoffs.
• Strategic team-building moves, including key trades and drafting all-star talents, have been pivotal in the Cavs’ rise this season.
• The Cavs’ ability to maintain team chemistry and continuity has been a significant advantage, contributing to their impressive season.

Conclusion:
The Cleveland Cavaliers have solidified their position as one of the premier teams in the NBA this season. Through strategic planning, exceptional player development, and strong team chemistry, the Cavs have crafted a narrative of success that resonates both on and off the court. As they advance to the playoffs, all eyes will be on whether they can sustain their stellar performance against the league’s elite contenders.