Cleveland Cavaliers

44-38, no playoffs

Overview: As Donovan Mitchell worked his way around Rocket Mortgage Field House’s floor recently, stopping to pose for photographers on media day, something stood out about the Cavaliers’ star guard. He couldn’t stop smiling. Asked at one station to pose holding the ball and looking angry, Mitchell declined. “That’s not me,” he said.

It’s hardly anyone these days in Cleveland as the Cavs, who won the NBA’s offseason with their acquisition of Mitchell in a seismic trade from Utah, have risen from a team with promise to one with championship potential. After doubling their win total (22 to 44) and barely missing the playoffs following a spate of ill-timed injuries late last season, the Cavs are confident that with Mitchell, a three-time All-Star and elite scorer, they can jump back among the Eastern Conference’s top tier for the first time since LeBron James left. Mitchell has moved the needle.

Quote: “Somebody like Donovan who has experience, just turned 26, is a star in this league, just provides us an opportunity to take an even bigger step this year,” said Cavs forward Kevin Love, who has ridden the team’s rollercoaster over nine seasons. “I know what he’s about; he’s about winning. I know a fresh start is going to be good for him, as well. But I’m excited to see what he does with this team.”