The Cleveland Cavaliers have officially reintroduced themselves to the NBA’s elite. In a statement series that sent shockwaves through the Eastern Conference, the Cavs completed a commanding 4-0 sweep over the Miami Heat in the first round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs.
It wasn’t just a sweep — it was a message.
Led by the superstar backcourt of Donovan Mitchell and the rapidly ascending Darius Garland, Cleveland showcased a lethal blend of scoring, defensive toughness, and depth that overwhelmed Heat from the opening tip of Game 1. Mitchell, who averaged 24 points per game in the series, looked every bit like the franchise cornerstone the Cavs envisioned when they traded for him.
Meanwhile, Jarrett Allen solidified his case as one of the league’s premier two-way big men. His rim protection, mobility, and expanded offensive repertoire frustrated the Heat all series long. Allen averaged 14.3 points, 10.3 rebounds, 2.5 steals, and 0.5 block across the four games, anchoring a Cavs defense that held Miami to just 47.7% shooting overall.
Head coach Kenny Atkinson deserves immense credit as well. His adjustments — particularly on how to neutralize Miami’s transition game — kept the Cavs in control even when the pace sped up.
Key Moments from the Sweep:
- Game 1: Mitchell explodes for 30 points, setting the tone in a 121–100 win.
- Game 2: Mitchell, Garland, and Mobley combined for 71 points
- Game 3: Jarrett Allen’s monster double-double (22 points, 10 rebounds) anchors a gritty road win.
- Game 4: A total team effort, with six Cavs scoring in double figures, 55-point margin, caps the sweep.
With this first-round sweep, the Cavaliers are not just advancing — they’re ascending. The team looks poised for a deep playoff run, exuding a balance of youth and veteran savvy that’s rare in today’s NBA.
Next up: a second-round clash with (likely) the winner of the Indiana Pacers vs. Milwaukee Bucks series — and if this first round was any indication, nobody wants to see these Cavaliers right now.
Cleveland is hungry. Cleveland is ready.
And after this sweep, the entire NBA is officially on notice.
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