Cavaliers' Unstoppable Streak Puts Them on the Brink of NBA History

Mar 12, 2025 at 3:01 AM

The Cleveland Cavaliers have been nothing short of remarkable this season, and their recent comeback victory against the Brooklyn Nets exemplifies their resilience. Despite missing key players such as Donovan Mitchell, De’Andre Hunter, and Ty Jerome, the Cavaliers turned a 18-point deficit into a thrilling 109-104 win in the final quarter. This performance not only mirrors their season-opening streak of 15 consecutive victories but also underscores their ability to excel under pressure. Entering the game with an impressive +38.6 clutch net rating, the Cavaliers have consistently found ways to win, regardless of who is on the floor. As they inch closer to one of the most revered milestones in NBA history—70 wins in a season—the question remains: can they achieve what only two teams have done before?

On March 11, the Cavaliers boast an outstanding record of 55-10, putting them within striking distance of the 70-win mark. To reach this historic milestone, they need to win 15 out of their remaining 17 games. While this feat has only been accomplished twice in NBA history—by the 1995-96 Chicago Bulls and the 2015-16 Golden State Warriors—the Cavaliers are uniquely positioned to make history. The Bulls benefited from Michael Jordan's leadership and a somewhat diluted talent pool due to league expansion. Meanwhile, the Warriors dominated with their unparalleled three-point shooting prowess and near-perfect health throughout the season. Both teams faced ideal circumstances that may be difficult to replicate today.

However, the Cavaliers have their own compelling reasons to chase this record. Securing home-court advantage in a potential Finals matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder is a significant motivator. With only a two-game lead over the Thunder for the best overall record, every win counts. Moreover, their upcoming schedule favors continued success. After facing the Grizzlies, who will be without Jaren Jackson Jr., the Cavaliers won't encounter another top-five seeded team until April. They have multiple games against competitive teams like the Knicks, Pacers, and Clippers, but none against heavyweights like the Thunder, Celtics, or Nuggets. Assuming good health, the Cavaliers should be favored in every game moving forward.

The pursuit of 70 wins comes with its challenges. Cleveland was without three core players during their recent game, and while no major injuries loom, cautious rest management is likely. The organization may also consider the toll such a pursuit could take on its players, especially given their experience in the 2016 Finals where they defeated the last team to achieve 70 wins. Nevertheless, the Cavaliers have already demonstrated their ability to overcome adversity. Starting a season 55-10 is far more challenging than finishing 15-2, and with the allure of joining an elite club in NBA history, the Cavaliers are poised to give it their all. While achieving 70 wins remains a long shot, it now seems more plausible than ever before.