Ranking the most interesting storylines for the Cleveland Cavaliers heading into the 2026/27 season

The Cleveland Cavaliers have championship expectations for the 2026/27 season.

The core of the roster is back. Kenny Atkinson is back. Peyton Watson was added to the fold.

The only thing left to do now is win and win big.

Mikey McNuggets is joined by Luka from RealCavsFans.com to preview the most interesting storylines for this team as they get ready to take on a gauntlet in the Eastern Conference.

Biggest thing we’ll be talking about this season: The Cavs made two big decisions this offseason and how they play out will largely define the season. They could’ve gone for big swings in getting involved in the pursuit of Giannis Antetokounmpo or Jaylen Brown but it likely would’ve cost them Evan Mobley. The front office still deeply believes in Mobley in the wake of a bit of a disappointing season, however. The other choice was the acquisition of Peyton Watson, which caused them to make a series of expensive trades and salary shedding moves. They believe Watson is on the verge of a breakout after he showed flashes in Denver last season. — Brian Windhorst

Biggest strength: The Cavs have four starters who have been All-Stars (Mobley, Jarrett Allen, James Harden and Donovan Mitchell) plus Watson, who they believe is on his way to being an elite two-way wing. They believe this group, coming off a conference finals appearance, has enough firepower to win the East. — Windhorst

Biggest weakness: Cleveland had to hollow out its bench to accomplish getting Watson and dipping below the second apron. They now have one of the thinnest teams in the league and are depending on the development of recent draft picks Jaylon Tyson, Tyrese Proctor and Meleek Thomas to step into vacated roles. — Windhorst