It’s been a long while since the Cleveland Cavaliers were considered a championship-caliber team.
Even to this day, and despite having the best record in the Eastern Conference, some still aren’t sold on them.
That’s why Tony Rizzo believes they have plenty to prove.
Talking on ESPN Cleveland’s “The Really Big Show,” the controversial pundit stated that having the best record in the East without LeBron James was a really big deal for the organization.
“I think this team has something to prove, and that’s what I want,” Rizzo said.
"I think this team has something to prove, and that's what I want," – @TheRealTRizzo on the Cavs going into the playoffs.
What are your expectations for the Cavs in the playoffs? pic.twitter.com/Ab5ebLU57K
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) April 9, 2025
He claimed that this team has its own identity, and as such, they should strive to prove that they’re not a fluke.
This will always happen to small-market teams.
Since the Cavs don’t have a superstar or a proven top-ten player, people will doubt them.
If they had this very same roster but the name on the front of the jersey read ‘Lakers,’ chances are that ESPN pundits would’ve been gushing about what they have done this season.
That’s what the Cavs have to deal with.
Granted, players like Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland have left plenty to be desired in the playoffs at times, and it makes sense that they need to prove themselves at the next level.
Then again, after all they’ve done this season, those who doubt the Cavs are either critics, don’t know the game, or haven’t watched them play.
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