The Cleveland Cavaliers need a lot of things right now, but more than anything, they require leadership. There are a lot of talented players on the team, but they simply aren’t getting to where they need to be.
When NBA teams agree to major contracts with players, they aren’t just paying for basketball skills. They are also paying for guidance and knowledge, experience that will help in high-pressure situations. This helps everyone, from younger up-and-comers to coaches. Right now, Cleveland has two players who need to rise to the occasion and show their leadership.
Those two stars are James Harden and Evan Mobley. They are both very impressive athletes, but they aren’t having the sort of season the Cavs need. Many people point to Donovan Mitchell as Cleveland’s definitive leader, and that is a valid opinion. But Harden and Mobley can carry some of the load too. In fact, they have to if the Cavaliers have any hope of going far in the playoffs.
We have heard this before about Harden. There have been complaints about him with practically every team he has played for. Most of the time, people claim that he isn’t playing with enthusiasm or motivation. Sure enough, that is what Cavs fans are saying this year. There have been numerous occasions when Harden has looked absent on defense, allowing easy points from opponents.
As for Mobley, Cavs fans have been hoping and pleading with him to evolve year after year. He’s not a bad player by any means and is averaging 17.5 points and 7.5 rebounds in 2026-27, but those numbers feel painfully close to the seasons that came before. Every year, people are hoping that Mobley will reach another level, and every year they are left disappointed. It feels like it’s do-or-die for the Cavaliers this season. If Mobley doesn’t go above and beyond, there could be serious talk of him leaving.
Imagine a situation where both of these players are performing with more energy and drive. Imagine them moving with speed, authority, and undeniable drive. That could be a total game-changer for Cleveland.
The team could benefit from the entire roster firing on all cylinders, but Harden and Mobley are under the microscope more than others.
NEXT: NBA Insider Explains Why Cavs Face Major Roster Dilemma
