The Cleveland Cavaliers have officially clinched the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference, locking up the second-best regular-season record in franchise history.
This team surprised a lot of people this year, including fans, dominating many of their opponents throughout the season.
The job isn’t finished, which head coach Kenny Atkinson is well aware of, moving forward, understanding that his team needs to keep their foot on the gas in the postseason.
Atkinson decided to rest the majority of his starters in the season finale against the Indiana Pacers, electing to rest his players before what’s expected to be a deep playoff run.
He talked about his team in a postgame presser, indicating that he likes their chances moving forward, especially because they’re healthy and motivated.
“I think we’re in a great place. I kind of love where we are, like I said. We’re healthy, that’s the most important thing. We’re hungry, this group is hungry… They want to prove themselves,” Atkinson said.
Kenny Atkinson Postgame After Loss vs Pacers:
“[6:25] I think we’re in a great place. I kind’ve love where we are, like I said. We’re healthy, that’s the most important thing. We’re hungry, this group is hungry… they want to prove themselves. They want to prove they can get to… pic.twitter.com/ahG7AGuwuJ
— Dylan🔮🪼 (@dillybar2145__) April 13, 2025
There’s a lot of debate about resting players at certain points of the season, but it’s become commonplace for teams around the league, especially those who have already locked up their place in the postseason.
Atkinson believes that this was in the best interest for his starters, so they can be fully rested and ready to take on their opponent in the first round of the playoffs.
The Eastern Conference is filled with a lot of good teams, including the Boston Celtics, New York Knicks, and Milwaukee Bucks.
Atkinson and the Cavaliers will need to be on their toes moving forward, needing to keep their eyes on the prize against these tough opponents.
NEXT: Cavs Finish The Regular Season With Second Most Franchise Wins
