NBA: 5 East teams that will make a playoff run down the stretch
By Zach Wolpin
Cleveland Cavaliers
Out of every team mentioned so far, the Cleveland Cavaliers are in the best shape right now, but I still think they have a chance to be even better. The Cavs are in fourth place in the East, only two and a half games back from first place with 24 games left to play.
This Cleveland team is full of young talent and they are not at full strength. Collin Sexton is out for the rest of the season, having to undergo left meniscus surgery after suffering a tear. Also big man Lauri Markkanen is out as of now with an ankle injury but will absolutely be returning to the starting lineup at some point.
Fourth in the East and the 9th easiest remaining schedule in the NBA should be very encouraging for Cavalier fans. I think Cleveland has a great chance of making a long playoff run. Their two All-Stars, Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen should be big factors in that.