Cavaliers vs. Bulls: Three Takeaways from Cleveland’s Preseason Opener

The Cleveland Cavaliers began their preseason as they fell at home to the Chicago Bulls, 117-116. As is routine for preseason match-ups, the starters’ minutes were reduced and bench players were given a run-out. Therefore, it wasn’t a match that truly gauges Cleveland’s overall ability, but one that provides pointers Cavs head coach Kenny Atkinson and the team can take and assess for the season ahead.

3 Takeaways From Cavs Preseason Opener

In the Cavaliers vs Bulls match, Atkinson mainly tested out how rotations could work without both starters Darius Garland and Max Strus. A positive start saw the Cavs race into an 11-point lead in the first quarter. The starters were benched with six minutes remaining in the third quarter, and a 9-3 run in the last two minutes of the game saw the Bulls run away with the victory. Despite the loss, let’s see what we can mostly look forward to for the season from that game

1. Evan Mobley Ready to Further Increase Offensive Load

A key point in the Atkinson regime last season was to expand Evan Mobley’s offensive game, letting him drive to the basket and push the ball in transition. Now we’re seeing his improvement in feeding his teammates and reading the defense, passing off-the-dribble to players like Jarrett Allen after attracting doubles. We’re also seeing his willingness to shoot from long-range, hitting 3s from the wing off hand-offs. Mobley’s evolution into a superstar will be the Cavaliers’ key to a championship, thus his offensive progression is essential.

The reigning Defensive Player of the Year finished with 12 points (5-10 FG, 2-4 3P), six rebounds, two assists, one block, one steal, and two turnovers in 18 minutes.

2. Jaylon Tyson Can Be Key Defensive Piece

Atkinson opted to start Jaylon Tyson, the 20th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, at the two-guard in the absence of Garland. Meanwhile, longtime shooting guard Donovan Mitchell started at point guard. Atkinson decided to opt with the sophomore likely to ease veteran newcomer Lonzo Ball in.