It’s too early in the season to jump to any wild conclusions about any NBA team that flies in the face of long-term season-long logic. But in the case of the Cavs, it makes perfect sense to expect that they won’t be a particularly good defensive team this season. Not with the current roster. So in their 0-3 season start, it’s actually not too early to sound the alarm about the squad’s defense, which has been atrocious so far. Here’s Cleveland.com reporting:
The problem starts with, but isn’t necessarily limited to, communication breakdowns — in transition and on switches.
“I think the biggest thing is communication,” head coach Tyronn Lue said on Tuesday. “When you’re switching you have to call the switches out so the man can’t get behind and get dunks and layups and easy shots.”
The Cavs have a motto on defense: ELC. That stands for early, loud and continuous. They reference it every day.
“By nature we have some guys that are quiet guys, they need to speak up, speak louder and call out the coverages,” Lue said.
For his part, Lue has been much more vocal this season. He’s constantly off his cushy bench seat, barking out instructions. Assistant coach Mike Longabardi is doing the same.
