Are East-contending Cavaliers built to last?

We know what the Cavaliers look like entering the 2025-26 season, but what about their future?

Actually, the upcoming season is the future, but we’re talking about sustainability. Can the Cavaliers remain contenders? Are they built for long-term success?

ESPN asked this of all 30 teams, and here’s what the outlet had to say about the Cavs:

“We didn’t predict Cleveland’s evolution from also-rans in the East to legitimate contenders. Only the Thunder surpassed the Cavaliers’ 64 wins last season, and although they stumbled in the conference semifinals, the East looks wide open for Cleveland this season.

“Already in the salary cap’s second apron, the Cavaliers are last (of all 30 teams) in financial flexibility. With their four core players under contract long term, however, Cleveland should get value in trade while saving money to retool around All-Stars Evan Mobley (24) and Donovan Mitchell (29).”

In other words, yes, the Cavs are young enough and have the assets to make a move to remain in the mix for at least the next three years.

Of course, they’re mostly only worried about this season. And when it comes to that, on paper, they just might be the team to beat in the East.

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