Cleveland’s 127-122 win over the Clippers marked their first 60-win season since LeBron James' era. While his legacy still looms large, the Cavaliers are forging their own path, chasing the East’s top seed and proving they can succeed post-LeBron.
Cleveland’s 127-122 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday secured the Cavaliers' third 60-win season in franchise history - an achievement deeply tied to the legacy of LeBron James.
Portland Trail Blazers
Cleveland Cavaliers
San Antonio Spurs
Detroit Pistons
Los Angeles Clippers
New York Knicks
Sacramento KingsThe last time Cleveland reached this milestone was during LeBron’s first stint with the team, posting 61 wins in 2009-10 and a franchise-record 66 wins in 2008-09. His impact still looms large over the franchise, as players acknowledge the challenge of carving their own path without him.
“Whether we like it or not, LeBron is the face of this city,” said Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen. “We’re trying to do something special and hopefully we can.”
First-year coach Kenny Atkinson praised his team for exceeding expectations, becoming just the 13th coach in NBA history to win 60 games in his first season with a new team. Atkinson stressed the importance of celebrating the accomplishment while keeping the bigger picture in mind.
Cleveland has steadily built a new identity post-LeBron, securing its first playoff series win without him since 1993 last season. Now, the Cavs are pushing for the Eastern Conference's top seed, sitting 4.5 games ahead of the Boston Celtics with seven games remaining.
Atkinson remains focused on team growth rather than standings, emphasizing health and performance over securing the No. 1 seed. Still, with momentum on their side, Cleveland continues to take steps toward a new era - one that honors LeBron’s legacy while striving for its own.
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