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Kenny Atkinson reflects on Cavs season as they prepare for NBA playoffs
TL;DR
Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson reflects on a challenging second season marked by injuries and lineup changes, leading to a final record of 52-30. The team is set to face the Toronto Raptors in the first round of the NBA playoffs starting April 18.
CLEVELAND — For a variety of reasons, coach Kenny Atkinson's second season at the Cavaliers helm was more difficult than the first.
Last season's Cavs raced out to a historic start, a 64-win season and had one of the healthiest regular seasons in the NBA.
This year's Cavs? They were hammered with injuries. They ended up using 41 different starting lineup combinations in 82 games. At one point, they were 17-16 more than one-third of the way through the season, just fighting to stay above .500.
In the moment, it wasn't as much of a key point in the year. But looking back on the road to the No. 4 seed — the Cavs will play the Toronto Raptors in the first round of the NBA playoffs, with Game 1 set for April 18 — that stop on mile marker 33 of the regular season symbolized, for Atkinson, the kind of regular season through which Cleveland battled.
Sitting at the podium for a pregame news conference April 12, just before the Cavs wrapped up the regular season with a win over the Washington Wizards to bring their final record to 52-30, Atkinson noted he was almost surprised to be reminded they were 17-16 at one point. It's a testament to the rocky path the Cavs traveled to get there.
"Got to be proud of that and understand that those struggles are going to help us, I think, in the playoffs," Atkinson said. "Big picture is you have to almost practice those struggles. You have to go through those experiences. So that's positive, even though it was just not easy to go through."
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 07: James Harden #1 of the Cleveland Cavaliers celebrates with Donovan Mitchell #45 after making a three-point shot in the fourth quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center on February 07, 2026 in Sacramento, California. 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 Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
Los Angeles Clippers guard Darius Garland, who was acquired earlier in the day in a trade from the Cleveland Cavaliers, sits in the stands to watch a game against the Cavs on Feb. 4, 2026, in Inglewood, California.
PORTLAND, OREGON - FEBRUARY 01: Jarrett Allen #31 is doused with water by teammate Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers after the game against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center on February 01, 2026 in Portland, Oregon. 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 Soobum Im/Getty Images)
Jan 30, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (31) slam dunks the ball against the Phoenix Suns in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
CLEVELAND, OHIO - JANUARY 28: LeBron James #23 and Jake LaRavia #12 of the Los Angeles Lakers guard Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers during the third quarter at Rocket Arena on January 28, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Lakers 129-99. 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)
Jan 26, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Orlando Magic guard Anthony Black (0) shoots beside Cleveland Cavaliers center Evan Mobley (4) in the first quarter at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images
ORLANDO, FLORIDA - JANUARY 24: Goga Bitadze #35 of the Orlando Magic collects a rebound against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the second quarter at Kia Center on January 24, 2026 in Orlando, Florida. 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 Rich Storry/Getty Images)
Jan 23, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Jaylon Tyson (20) drives to the basket against Sacramento Kings forward Domantas Sabonis (11) during the second half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) goes to the basket while guarded by Charlotte Hornets guard Brandon Miller on Jan. 21, 2026, in Charlotte, North Carolina.\
CLEVELAND, OHIO - JANUARY 19: Guard Jaylon Tyson #20 of the Cleveland Cavaliers shoots over guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second quarter at Rocket Arena on January 19, 2026 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)
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JANUARY 16: Jaylon Tyson #20 of the Cleveland Cavaliers drives to the basket against Adem Bona #30 of the Philadelphia 76ers during the first half at Xfinity Mobile Arena on January 16, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 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 Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland, center, drives to the basket against Philadelphia 76ers defenders Joel Embiid, left, and Kelly Oubre Jr. on Jan. 14, 2026, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Jan 12, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Utah Jazz forward Kevin Love (42) fouls Cleveland Cavaliers center Evan Mobley (4) during the first half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Jan 10, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward Nae'qwan Tomlin (35) goes for a loose ball against Minnesota Timberwolves forward Julius Randle (30) and guard Anthony Edwards (5) during the second half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Jan 8, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward Evan Mobley (4) defends against Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) in the fourth quarter at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images
Cleveland Cavaliers center Evan Mobley (4) blocks the shot of Indiana Pacers forward Pascal Siakam (43) in the first half, Jan. 6, 2026, in Indianapolis.
Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) defends Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) during the second half at Rocket Arena in Cleveland on Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026.
Jan 2, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland (10) looks to pass while being defended by Denver Nuggets guard Peyton Watson (8) during the first half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Dermer-Imagn Images
Dec 31, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Jaylon Tyson (20) goes up for a dunk during the second half against the Phoenix Suns at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Dermer-Imagn Images
Dec 29, 2025; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) shoots against Cleveland Cavaliers center Evan Mobley (4) in the second half at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images
Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. shoots the ball over Cleveland Cavaliers forward De'Andre Hunter during the second half, Dec. 27, 2025, in Houston.
Cavaliers guard Sam Merrill (5) shoots the ball during the first quarter as Knicks forward OG Anunoby (8) defends at Madison Square Garden in New York on Dec. 25, 2025.
Cavaliers forward De'Andre Hunter celebrates after a second-half dunk against the New Orleans Pelicans, Dec. 23, 2025, Cleveland.
Dec 22, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson tries to get the attention of referee Natalie Sago (9) in the third quarter against the Charlotte Hornets at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images
Chicago Bulls forward Matas Buzelis (14) loses the ball against Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (31) on Dec. 19, 2025, in Cleveland.
Dec 17, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (31) and Chicago Bulls guard Josh Giddey (3) chase the ball during the second half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images
Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (31) shoots against the Charlotte Hornets on Dec. 14, 2025, in Cleveland.
Dec 12, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Wizards guard Jamir Watkins (5) dunks the ball as Cleveland Cavaliers center Evan Mobley (4) defends in the first half at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
Dec 6, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) works against Golden State Warriors guard Buddy Hield (7) during the first half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Cleveland Cavaliers guard Jaylon Tyson (20) drives to the basket as San Antonio Spurs forward Keldon Johnson (3) defends Dec. 5, 2025, in Cleveland.
Cavaliers forward De'Andre Hunter rebounds in the first quarter against the Portland Trail Blazers, Dec. 3, 2025, in Cleveland.
Dec 1, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Evan Mobley (4) looses the ball while Indiana Pacers forward Isaiah Jackson (22) defends in the first half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
Nov 30, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Jaylon Tyson (20) passes during the second half against the Boston Celtics at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Dermer-Imagn Images
Nov 28, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Mouhamed Gueye (18) reaches for the ball against Cleveland Cavaliers forward Nae’Quan Tomlin (35) during the fourth quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
Nov 24, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Cleveland Cavaliers forward Luke Travers (33) comes down with a rebound against the Toronto Raptors during the first half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
Cleveland Cavaliers forward Nae'Qwan Tomlin (35) blocks the shot of Los Angeles Clippers guard James Harden on Nov. 23, 2025, in Cleveland.
Nov 21, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Craig Porter Jr. (9) loses the ball against Indiana Pacers guard Bennedict Mathurin (00) during the first half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Nov 19, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) goes to the basket against Houston Rockets center Steven Adams (12) during the second half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Dermer-Imagn Images
Nov 17, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) shoots beside Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (31) in the first quarter at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images
Nov 15, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) defends a shot by Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) in the first quarter at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images
Nov 13, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (31) drives between Toronto Raptors center Jakob Poeltl (19) and guard Immanuel Quickley (5) in the first quarter at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images
Cavs forward Larry Nance Jr. shoots over Jaime Jaquez Jr. of the Miami Heat during the first half, Nov. 12, 2025 in Miami.
Nov 10, 2025; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Heat forward Jaime Jaquez Jr. (11) and Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (31) fight for a loose ball during the first period at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Rhona Wise-Imagn Images
Nov 8, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) goes up for a dunk against the Chicago Bulls during the first half at Rocket Arena. Mitchell missed the dunk. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Cavaliers guard Darius Garland (10) and Washington Wizards forward Khris Middleton chase a loose ball in the second half of a NBA Cup game, Nov. 7, 2025, in Washington, D.C.
Nov 5, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland (10) brings the ball up court in the fourth quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers at Rocket Arena.
Nov 2, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Jaylon Tyson (20) celebrates with Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) during the first half against the Atlanta Hawks at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Oct 31, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Evan Mobley (4) defends a shot by Toronto Raptors forward Collin Murray-Boyles (12) in the first quarter at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images
Oct 29, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward/guard De'Andre Hunter (12) and Boston Celtics center Luka Garza (52) work for the ball in the second quarter at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images
Cleveland Cavaliers center Thomas Bryant (3) dunks as Detroit Pistons' Tolu Smith looks on Oct. 27, 2025, in Detroit, Michigan.
Oct 26, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) drives to the basket against Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis (9) during the second half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Oct 24, 2025; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (31) blocks a shot taken by Brooklyn Nets center Nic Claxton (33) in the second quarter at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
Oct 22, 2025; New York, New York, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Jaylon Tyson (20) hangs on the rim after a dunk against New York Knicks guard Mikal Bridges (25) during the second quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 07: James Harden #1 of the Cleveland Cavaliers celebrates with Donovan Mitchell #45 after making a three-point shot in the fourth quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center on February 07, 2026 in Sacramento, California. 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 Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 07: James Harden #1 of the Cleveland Cavaliers celebrates with Donovan Mitchell #45 after making a three-point shot in the fourth quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center on February 07, 2026 in Sacramento, California. 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 Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Los Angeles Clippers guard Darius Garland, who was acquired earlier in the day in a trade from the Cleveland Cavaliers, sits in the stands to watch a game against the Cavs on Feb. 4, 2026, in Inglewood, California.
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
PORTLAND, OREGON - FEBRUARY 01: Jarrett Allen #31 is doused with water by teammate Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers after the game against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center on February 01, 2026 in Portland, Oregon. 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 Soobum Im/Getty Images)
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Jan 30, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (31) slam dunks the ball against the Phoenix Suns in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
CLEVELAND, OHIO - JANUARY 28: LeBron James #23 and Jake LaRavia #12 of the Los Angeles Lakers guard Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers during the third quarter at Rocket Arena on January 28, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Lakers 129-99. 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)
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Jan 26, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Orlando Magic guard Anthony Black (0) shoots beside Cleveland Cavaliers center Evan Mobley (4) in the first quarter at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
ORLANDO, FLORIDA - JANUARY 24: Goga Bitadze #35 of the Orlando Magic collects a rebound against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the second quarter at Kia Center on January 24, 2026 in Orlando, Florida. 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 Rich Storry/Getty Images)
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Jan 23, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Jaylon Tyson (20) drives to the basket against Sacramento Kings forward Domantas Sabonis (11) during the second half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) goes to the basket while guarded by Charlotte Hornets guard Brandon Miller on Jan. 21, 2026, in Charlotte, North Carolina.\
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
CLEVELAND, OHIO - JANUARY 19: Guard Jaylon Tyson #20 of the Cleveland Cavaliers shoots over guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second quarter at Rocket Arena on January 19, 2026 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)
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JANUARY 16: Jaylon Tyson #20 of the Cleveland Cavaliers drives to the basket against Adem Bona #30 of the Philadelphia 76ers during the first half at Xfinity Mobile Arena on January 16, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 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 Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland, center, drives to the basket against Philadelphia 76ers defenders Joel Embiid, left, and Kelly Oubre Jr. on Jan. 14, 2026, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Jan 12, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Utah Jazz forward Kevin Love (42) fouls Cleveland Cavaliers center Evan Mobley (4) during the first half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Jan 10, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward Nae'qwan Tomlin (35) goes for a loose ball against Minnesota Timberwolves forward Julius Randle (30) and guard Anthony Edwards (5) during the second half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Jan 8, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward Evan Mobley (4) defends against Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) in the fourth quarter at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Cleveland Cavaliers center Evan Mobley (4) blocks the shot of Indiana Pacers forward Pascal Siakam (43) in the first half, Jan. 6, 2026, in Indianapolis.
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) defends Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) during the second half at Rocket Arena in Cleveland on Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026.
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Jan 2, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland (10) looks to pass while being defended by Denver Nuggets guard Peyton Watson (8) during the first half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Dermer-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Dec 31, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Jaylon Tyson (20) goes up for a dunk during the second half against the Phoenix Suns at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Dermer-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Dec 29, 2025; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) shoots against Cleveland Cavaliers center Evan Mobley (4) in the second half at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. shoots the ball over Cleveland Cavaliers forward De'Andre Hunter during the second half, Dec. 27, 2025, in Houston.
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Cavaliers guard Sam Merrill (5) shoots the ball during the first quarter as Knicks forward OG Anunoby (8) defends at Madison Square Garden in New York on Dec. 25, 2025.
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Cavaliers forward De'Andre Hunter celebrates after a second-half dunk against the New Orleans Pelicans, Dec. 23, 2025, Cleveland.
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Dec 22, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson tries to get the attention of referee Natalie Sago (9) in the third quarter against the Charlotte Hornets at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Chicago Bulls forward Matas Buzelis (14) loses the ball against Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (31) on Dec. 19, 2025, in Cleveland.
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Dec 17, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (31) and Chicago Bulls guard Josh Giddey (3) chase the ball during the second half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (31) shoots against the Charlotte Hornets on Dec. 14, 2025, in Cleveland.
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Dec 12, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Wizards guard Jamir Watkins (5) dunks the ball as Cleveland Cavaliers center Evan Mobley (4) defends in the first half at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Dec 6, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) works against Golden State Warriors guard Buddy Hield (7) during the first half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Cleveland Cavaliers guard Jaylon Tyson (20) drives to the basket as San Antonio Spurs forward Keldon Johnson (3) defends Dec. 5, 2025, in Cleveland.
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Cavaliers forward De'Andre Hunter rebounds in the first quarter against the Portland Trail Blazers, Dec. 3, 2025, in Cleveland.
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Dec 1, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Evan Mobley (4) looses the ball while Indiana Pacers forward Isaiah Jackson (22) defends in the first half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Nov 30, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Jaylon Tyson (20) passes during the second half against the Boston Celtics at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Dermer-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Nov 28, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Mouhamed Gueye (18) reaches for the ball against Cleveland Cavaliers forward Nae’Quan Tomlin (35) during the fourth quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Nov 24, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Cleveland Cavaliers forward Luke Travers (33) comes down with a rebound against the Toronto Raptors during the first half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Cleveland Cavaliers forward Nae'Qwan Tomlin (35) blocks the shot of Los Angeles Clippers guard James Harden on Nov. 23, 2025, in Cleveland.
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Nov 21, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Craig Porter Jr. (9) loses the ball against Indiana Pacers guard Bennedict Mathurin (00) during the first half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Nov 19, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) goes to the basket against Houston Rockets center Steven Adams (12) during the second half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Dermer-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Nov 17, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) shoots beside Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (31) in the first quarter at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Nov 15, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) defends a shot by Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) in the first quarter at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Nov 13, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (31) drives between Toronto Raptors center Jakob Poeltl (19) and guard Immanuel Quickley (5) in the first quarter at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Cavs forward Larry Nance Jr. shoots over Jaime Jaquez Jr. of the Miami Heat during the first half, Nov. 12, 2025 in Miami.
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Nov 10, 2025; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Heat forward Jaime Jaquez Jr. (11) and Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (31) fight for a loose ball during the first period at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Rhona Wise-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Nov 8, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) goes up for a dunk against the Chicago Bulls during the first half at Rocket Arena. Mitchell missed the dunk. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Cavaliers guard Darius Garland (10) and Washington Wizards forward Khris Middleton chase a loose ball in the second half of a NBA Cup game, Nov. 7, 2025, in Washington, D.C.
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Nov 5, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland (10) brings the ball up court in the fourth quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers at Rocket Arena.
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Nov 2, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Jaylon Tyson (20) celebrates with Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) during the first half against the Atlanta Hawks at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Oct 31, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Evan Mobley (4) defends a shot by Toronto Raptors forward Collin Murray-Boyles (12) in the first quarter at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Oct 29, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward/guard De'Andre Hunter (12) and Boston Celtics center Luka Garza (52) work for the ball in the second quarter at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Cleveland Cavaliers center Thomas Bryant (3) dunks as Detroit Pistons' Tolu Smith looks on Oct. 27, 2025, in Detroit, Michigan.
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Oct 26, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) drives to the basket against Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis (9) during the second half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Oct 24, 2025; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (31) blocks a shot taken by Brooklyn Nets center Nic Claxton (33) in the second quarter at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
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Cleveland Cavaliers highlights. The best images from each game of the 2025-26 season
Oct 22, 2025; New York, New York, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Jaylon Tyson (20) hangs on the rim after a dunk against New York Knicks guard Mikal Bridges (25) during the second quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Cleveland Cavaliers schedule, record
After starting 17-16, the Cavs finished the regular season 35-14. To get there, they used multiple starting lineups, which Atkinson used an example in itself to illustrate the fluid nature of this season in Cleveland. A series of injuries followed a trade deadline that added three key players to the rotation, including future Hall of Famer James Harden.
The Cavs shifted in every direction trying to make whatever group of players were available on a given night work. Minutes fluctuated more than the temperatures during an Ohio spring.
"[It's] believing that we're a stronger team because of it, and it's going to help us in the playoffs," Atkinson said. "All that, it makes you stronger, and it's made our bench stronger. I mean, you see these young guys, these guys have all played in regular season games, big games, and helped us win.
"It makes me believe we're going to be more prepared for the playoffs this year because of it."
A year ago, the Cavs swept the Miami Heat in the first round before being ousted in the second round by the Indiana Pacers. Injuries to Darius Garland and Evan Mobley didn't help matters, but it was largely the Pacers' speed and force that overpowered Cleveland. It led to a summer in which Atkinson noted the "hell we put them through" to better prepare the Cavs on a physical level.
Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) reaches for the ball against the Toronto Raptors on Nov. 24, 2025, in Toronto, Ontario.
Cavs injury report for NBA playoffs
Despite a regular season filled with injuries and players sidelined at different intervals, the Cavaliers enter the playoffs largely healthy. Atkinson noted that only Thomas Bryant is viewed as questionable for Game 1 of the Raptors series. Finally, they're healthy at the right time.
"I think the way we turn [the previous injuries] into positives, like, 'Hey, this could be the opposite of last year,' we could end up being healthy at the end of the season, which is more important,'" Atkinson said, referring to the playoffs. "Probably besides Thomas, it looks like it's trending that direction."
Regardless of how successful last year's regular season was for Atkinson, and regardless of how the Cavs got to this point, it's how they perform now that matters. It's the only real grade to receive. And it's a test for which the Cavs started studying as soon as the Pacers bounced them in the second round nearly 12 months ago.
The Cavs haven't been able to get past the second round. That is Atkinson's obstacle.
"This is when we earn our money," Atkinson said. "This is what coaches, we relish. You get to strategic stuff. You got a little time to prepare your team for a first-round matchup and then hopefully more. I mean, flowers are blooming. It's warm. You just feel this energy, your renewed energy."
Ryan Lewis covers the Cleveland Guardians and Cavaliers for the Akron Beacon Journal. He can be reached at rlewis1@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: The road the Cavaliers traveled to the 2026 NBA playoffs
Q&A
What was the Cavaliers' final record for the season?
The Cavaliers finished the season with a record of 52-30.
How many different starting lineup combinations did the Cavaliers use this season?
The Cavaliers used 41 different starting lineup combinations during the season.
When do the Cavaliers play their first playoff game against the Raptors?
The Cavaliers will play their first playoff game against the Raptors on April 18.
What challenges did the Cavaliers face during the season?
The Cavaliers faced significant challenges due to injuries, which impacted their performance and consistency throughout the season.
