The Cleveland Cavaliers’ 2024-25 season ended in heartbreak, but President of Basketball Operations Koby Altman remains unshaken. Speaking at Cleveland Clinic Courts on Monday, Altman addressed the team’s historic 64-win campaign and their second-round playoff exit against the Indiana Pacers.
“It’s raw for us,” Altman admitted, acknowledging the sting of the 4-1 series loss against the Indiana Pacers. “We’re disappointed how it ended.”
Despite the setback, Altman’s optimism shines through. “I love our foundation,” he said, praising the youthful core of Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen, with an average starting lineup age of 26.8.
The Cavs dominated the regular season, clinching the East’s No. 1 seed for the first time since 2016. “We had the second-best offensive rating in NBA history,” Altman noted, crediting new coach Kenny Atkinson’s system.
Yet, playoff struggles persist. “We have to figure out this next 16,” Altman emphasized, referring to the postseason wins needed for a title. He pinpointed mental toughness as key, citing a critical “foul line blackout” in Game 2 against Indiana.
Injuries, particularly to Garland, hampered Cleveland’s playoff run. “Not having your All-Star point guard healthy was a big part,” Altman said, stressing the need for better playoff health management.
Altman dismissed breakup rumors surrounding the core four. “This group is going to get over the hump,” he declared, drawing parallels to Denver and Boston’s patient roster-building.
Financially, the Cavs are ready to invest. “No restrictions,” Altman confirmed regarding owner Dan Gilbert’s willingness to enter the luxury tax, even the second apron, to retain talent.
Evan Mobley, at 23, is central to Cleveland’s future. “We’re going to go as Evan is going to go,” Altman said, excited for Atkinson’s offseason development program.
Mental resilience is a focus. “It just happened in round two,” Altman said of learning from playoff failures. “That has to fuel you.”
Altman embraces the pressure of high expectations. “I want to live in that space,” he said, where falling short of a championship fuels disappointment but drives progress.
The Cavs’ journey continues with unwavering belief. “This window is wide open,” Altman insisted, signaling Cleveland’s relentless pursuit of an NBA title.
