The Cleveland Cavaliers were branded as one of the biggest favorites ahead of the 2025-26 season. After a superb 64-18 record in the 2024-25 season, the expectations were high, especially when people expected the Boston Celtics and Indiana Pacers to fall off due to Achilles tendon injuries to their superstars.
Unfortunately for the Cavaliers, they have not met expectations. After losing on Christmas, they now have a 17-15 record this season. This is a far cry from the expectations, while their fellow preseason favorite, the New York Knicks, are flying with a 21-9 record.
Wall calls for the Cavaliers to make a big change
Former NBA All-Star John Wall was on the Prime Video NBA broadcast, where he discussed the Cavaliers. He was not impressed with what was happening with the team, especially during the Christmas game against the Knicks.
It has not been the best of times for the Cavaliers because they are struggling to get wins. They do not look like the same team from the previous year because many players have dipped in form, including Evan Mobley, Jarrett Allen, and Darius Garland.
More: Could this be to blame for the Cavaliers’ struggles?
Most people can admit that Donovan Mitchell is the only player who is performing at the peak of his powers. That is unfortunate because they have long relied upon their core four. Wall believes that the Cavs should make big changes because of their recent struggles.
“I think they’ve got to make a big change. Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland are not getting along in that backcourt. Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley are just too soft. They don’t have that toughness, that grit when going against a team like the Pistons or the Knicks that will give that physicality,” Wall said on the Prime Video NBA broadcast.
Moving forward, the Cavaliers are at a crossroads. They must make some big changes, which could lead to the team parting ways with some of the core group. Garland and Allen are the likeliest players, considering Mitchell and Mobley appear to be the team’s building blocks.
It will be an interesting few months ahead for the Cavaliers, as they still have lofty goals. They want to compete at the highest level, but that might need them to make a big change.
