CLEVELAND — The storybook start to the 2022-23 season for the Cleveland Cavaliers hasn't shown any signs of stopping as the NBA heads into its fourth week of play.
Eight straight wins have propelled the Cavs from early season feel-good story, into bonafide Eastern Conference contenders in the eyes of many.
Last week saw Cleveland sitting in the #3 position in the official NBA power rankings behind the undefeated Milwaukee Bucks and Western Conference powerhouse Phoenix Suns.
The Cavs, led by way-too-early MVP candidate Donovan Mitchell, put together three impressive victories.
Cleveland/Boston part two saw the Cavs pull away in overtime in Darius Garland's return to the court. Friday's contest with the Pistons showed off the impressive depth of the Cavalier roster dispatching Detroit 112-88 with Garland and Mitchell resting. Sunday was an exorcism of sorts seeing a Cavs victory against a LeBron James led team for the first time since Baron Davis and Alonzo Gee were patrolling the floors in wine and gold.
The Cavaliers now sit at the top of the mountain with the still unbeaten Milwaukee Bucks at #2 in this week's NBA Power Rankings.
If last year was the "feel good story" for the Cavs, this year is "the arrival".
After Sunday's win against the Lakers, LeBron took to the podium after the game to praise Cleveland's roster, coaching staff and culture.
Bill Simmons, podcaster and CEO of the sports media outlet "The Ringer", said in and edition of his podcast last week, "It's not crazy to me that they're going to make the Finals. Much like last year with the Celtics, sometimes it's actually more common for the team to be a year early than a year late. And I just think they have to be considered."