Locked On Cavs - Daily Podcast On The Cleveland Cavaliers

On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham reacts to the Cleveland Cavaliers defeating the Brooklyn Nets to win their Home Opener. Danny begins the show discussing the Cavs win and why the team nearly lost a 22-point lead over the Nets. He points to turnovers and poor defense as the catalyst for Brooklyn’s near comeback. Next, Danny points to all the good things the Cavs did throughout the night, including a dominant first half and outstanding ball movement. 

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The Cleveland Cavaliers survive a late Brooklyn Nets surge after building a 22-point lead—are lingering fourth-quarter issues threatening their long-term potential?

The conversation focused on the Cavaliers’ situational struggles, Donovan Mitchell’s rhythm, and the dominant inside-out game from Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. Key themes include Jarrett Allen’s efficiency, Mobley’s all-around play, and whether head coach Kenny Atkinson should rethink late-game rotations. The discussion explored Mario Hezonja’s immediate impact off the bench, Peyton Watson’s adaptation to the roster, and how big-man basketball is reshaping the Cavs’ style. With upcoming matchups looming, can Cleveland cl...

On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham is joined by Erik Slater of Locked On Nets to preview the Cleveland Cavaliers Home Opener against the Brooklyn Nets. The guys discuss Brooklyn’s addition of Julius Randle, the Nets’ plethora of young talent and former Cleveland Cavaliers guard Keon Ellis returning to town.

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On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham reacts to the Cleveland Cavaliers blowing a 29-point lead against the Philadelphia 76ers on Opening Night in Philly. Danny begins the show by talking about the most concerning thing from the game, that included the Cavs unable to combat an increased physicality from the Sixers in the 2nd half. Danny next discusses the team’s need to play through Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen more before shifting to the positives.

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The Cleveland Cavaliers suffer a historic meltdown as LeBron James fuels the Philadelphia 76ers' stunning comeback. Can the Cavs recover from blowing a 29-point lead? Tim Daniel and Chasity Melvin break down how Kenny Atkinson’s questionable rotations and late-game decisions let the game slip away—even with Donovan Mitchell on a scoring tear.

Key topics include the disastrous third quarter, the double-big lineup of Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley, and the impact of Peyton Watson’s uneven debut. The hosts question the Cavs’ ability to maintain leads and criticize the front office’s personnel choices. With Brooklyn N...

On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham gives the latest injury updates for the Cleveland Cavaliers, including the news that starting center Jarrett Allen popped up on the injury report on Wednesday evening with a knee injury that could force him to miss the team’s game against LeBron James and the Philadelphia 76ers. Next, Adam Aaronson stops by to preview the game between the Cavs and the Sixers.

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Check out Danny’s Substack, The Inside Shot: https://theinsideshot.substack.com/ 

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On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham gives the latest injury updates for the Cleveland Cavaliers, including the positive news that sharpshooter Sam Merrill returned to practice on Tuesday ahead of the team’s season-opening game on Thursday against the Philadelphia 76ers. Danny also discusses the importance of Merrill’s role on the team and why his uniqueness will be felt. Next, Danny discusses Nae’Qwan Tomlin being ruled out for the next several weeks with a back injury and how it might shape the rotation. Finally, he talks about former NBA head coach Tom Thibodeau visiting Cavs p...

On this edition of Locked On NBA Cavs, Danny Cunningham breaks down the important things that the Cleveland Cavaliers must do early in the season in order to secure a successful start to the year. Can Evan Mobley reclaim his form and spark the Cavs’ offense alongside new lineup combinations featuring James Harden and Jarrett Allen? Jaylon Tyson’s potential emergence as a sixth man and Peyton Watson’s move into the starting lineup add intrigue, especially with the team’s revamped chemistry and evolving roles. Danny also breaks down the Cavs’ challenging opening schedule, injury updates on Sam Merrill an...

Who are the BEST and WORST teams in the NBA heading into the 2026-27 season? With opening night just around the corner, Locked On NBA Daily reveals its official 30-team NBA Power Rankings, organized into S-through-F tiers! Wes Goldberg, Matt Moore and Haize unveil rankings voted on by hosts from all 30 Locked On NBA team podcasts, debating the biggest surprises, overrated contenders and underrated playoff hopefuls. The Oklahoma City Thunder, San Antonio Spurs and defending champion New York Knicks headline the exclusive S Tier. But do Victor Wembanyama's Spurs belong alongside the NBA's elite? Meanwhile, the Denver Nuggets, Los...

On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham makes his predictions for the Cleveland Cavaliers ahead of the 2026-27 NBA season getting underway this week. He projects the Cavs to notch 51 wins, top the Central Division, and remain a cut above rivals like the Indiana Pacers and Detroit Pistons—even as the Eastern Conference looks fiercer than ever. Key topics include Donovan Mitchell’s All-NBA potential, the impact of James Harden on Cleveland’s offensive rating, and the evolving roles of Evan Mobley and Peyton Watson. With early season tests, relentless travel stretches, and tight margins in the standi...

On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham breaks down what he saw at the team’s annual Wine & Gold Scrimmage! Danny starts the show by talking about Evan Mobley’s dominance on Saturday afternoon. Mobley was the best player on the floor throughout the afternoon and the pairing between him and James Harden could greatly benefit the big man. Next, Danny shifts his attention to Peyton Watson, who also stood out, having a good offensive day and making an impact on the defensive end of the floor too. 

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On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham breaks down the GM survey results, debates the Cavaliers’ standing versus rivals like the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers, and questions the league’s assessment of key players—including a hot take on Evan Mobley’s snub from defensive accolades. Key segments cover the impact of Peyton Watson’s under-the-radar acquisition, Meleek Thomas as a draft steal, and why Rocket Arena is earning praise as one of the NBA's toughest home courts.

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On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham is joined by Mike Lucas of the Ultimate Cleveland Sports Show to discuss the latest news and rumors surrounding the Cleveland Cavaliers. The guys spotlight Mobley’s struggles finishing in the paint, preseason rotations, and why the team’s revamped size and strength could unlock new lineup possibilities. The conversation dives into Peyton Watson’s eye-popping defensive potential and Mario Hezonja’s surprising playmaking as a bruising wing, reshaping Cleveland’s frontcourt dynamics. Key storylines include the Cavs’ backup point guard battle between Craig Porter Jr. and Tyrese Proctor, the impact of ne...

On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham reacts to the Cleveland Cavaliers losing to the Orlando Magic in the team’s preseason finale on Tuesday night. Danny begins the show by discussing how the Cavaliers didn’t play with force in the game and allowed their poor shooting to impact them defensively. Next, Danny talks about Evan Mobley and the team’s starting lineup struggling in this game. Finally, he discusses the positives for the Cavs, including Mario Hezonja and Meleek Thomas. 

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On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham breaks down the latest with the Cleveland Cavaliers. On this show, Danny talks about the projected rotation for the Cavs and where things stand in the battle for playing time with Meleek Thomas and Craig Porter Jr. Danny talks about the positives that Thomas has done on the defensive end to earn playing time. Next, Danny talks about what lineups for the Cavs have stood out, and discusses how Mario Hezonja could be a game-changer for some of them. Finally, he discusses things to watch for on Tuesday night in...

On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham reacts to the Cleveland Cavaliers defeating the Orlando Magic in preseason action on Sunday night. He begins the show by talking about James Harden’s big night, where he had 24 points in 26 minutes on the floor in his preseason debut. Next, Danny talks about Cleveland’s defense, which could be significantly improved due to the addition of Peyton Watson. Finally, he talks about the big night by Mario Hezonja, who is fitting into a new role for the Cavaliers. 

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On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham reacts to the Cleveland Cavaliers losing their preseason opening game to the Boston Celtics in the debuts of Peyton Watson and Meleek Thomas. Danny starts the show by discussing what stood out about Watson, considering his athleticism is something that has been rare in Cleveland. Next, Danny talks about the biggest concern that could plague the Cavs this season. Finally, Danny talks about Meleek Thomas’ standing in the battle for the backup point guard spot.

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On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham is joined by Justin Rowan (The Chasedown Podcast) to discuss the members of the Cleveland Cavaliers that they’re most excited to watch this season. The guys begin by talking about rookie sensation Meleek Thomas. Danny and Justin discuss whether the hype is real with Thomas and whether or not he can make an impact as a rookie for the Cavaliers. Next, the swing the conversation to Tyrese Proctor and wonder whether the second-year man out of Duke can earn minutes on the roster. Finally, the guys talk about potential ro...

On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham is joined by Justin Rowan (The Chasedown Podcast) to discuss the members of the Cleveland Cavaliers that they’re most excited to watch this season. The guys begin by talking about Jaylon Tyson, who has received rave reviews early on in training camp. Next, the conversation shifts to Donovan Mitchell, who the guys say have been overlooked despite being a top-10 player in the NBA. Finally, the conversation shifts to Peyton Watson, the best newcomer on the Cavs who might be able to move the needle more than anyone else on...

On this episode of Cavs Squad, we kicked off our preseason preview of the Cleveland Cavaliers by discussing expectations for the upcoming season and where the team fits into the Eastern Conference hierarchy. While the East remains highly competitive, we debated whether Cleveland belongs in the conference's top tier alongside teams expected to contend for the NBA Finals or if the Cavaliers currently sit just below that elite group as a dangerous challenger.

The conversation then shifted to individual accolades and which Cavaliers have the best chance to bring home major awards this season. We examined Donovan...

On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham discusses the most important storylines surrounding the Cleveland Cavaliers ahead of the 2026 NBA Preseason. The Cavs will take the floor for the first time on Thursday night against the Boston Celtics. Danny talks about what the Cavs starting lineup should be when the season begins, what we should expect to see from Evan Mobley and Peyton Watson and so much more. 

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Check out Danny’s Substack, The Inside Shot: https://theinsideshot.substack.com/ 

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On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham breaks down the latest news with the Cleveland Cavaliers. He begins Monday’s show by discussing what expectations should be for swingman Jaylon Tyson. Tyson has drawn rave reviews so far during training camp while the team has been in Spain. Next, Danny talks about what we’ve learned in training camp, including how the Cavs might be different defensively and the praise for Meleek Thomas.

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On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham discusses the latest storylines surrounding the Cleveland Cavaliers as their training camp continues in Spain. He starts the show by discussing Peyton Watson and the way that he can change how the Cavs play on the defensive end of the floor. Next, Danny talks about Kenny Atkinson’s positive words for Jaylon Tyson before discussing Mario Hezonja’s versatility.

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Check out Danny’s Substack, The Inside Shot: https://theinsideshot.substack.com/ 

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On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham is joined by Spencer Davies (Cavs Roundtable, Clutch Points) to break down what we should expect from Peyton Watson heading into his first season with the Cleveland Cavaliers. The guys begin the conversation by talking about which end of the floor Watson will make the biggest impact for the Cavs this season before talking about the ideal way for the team to use him. Danny and Spencer finish the conversation by talking about the third point guard battle.

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On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham recaps what we learned from the Cleveland Cavaliers following the second day of training camp over in Spain. He starts the show by talking about what the Cavs might be doing defensively thanks to Peyton Watson before pivoting to the buzz surrounding Meleek Thomas and Donovan Mitchell’s latest news.

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Check out Danny’s Substack, The Inside Shot: https://theinsideshot.substack.com/ 

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On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham is joined by Jackson Flickinger of Fear the Sword to discuss how the Cleveland Cavaliers could be different this season. The guys talk about whether the offense or defense will change more, highlighting how new pieces to the roster could slightly alter the way the team plays. Next, the guys talk about what to expect for James Harden entering his 18th season in the NBA. 

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The Cleveland Cavaliers face a burning question: Can Sam Merrill realistically contend for the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award, or will scoring types like Jaylon Tyson steal the spotlight? Tim Daniel, Danny Cunningham, Spencer German, and Chasity Melvin break down the Cavs’ bench depth, the traits voters reward, and how Coach Kenny Atkinson’s rotation decisions could shape individual award chances and the team’s offensive firepower.

Debate turns to Jarrett Allen’s undervalued impact, the evolution of Evan Mobley—who’s reportedly playing with a chip on his shoulder—and the high expectations for James Harden’s...

On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham breaks down how he thinks the Cleveland Cavaliers can benefit by having a full training camp with James Harden ahead of the 2026-27 NBA regular season. Danny talks about lineups that can be unlocked by having more practice time and new options for head coach Kenny Atkinson in certain spots on the floor. Next, Danny talks about the growth of Jaylon Tyson and how he has matured after his shortcomings in the playoffs last year. Finally, Danny talks about how Mario Hezonja can be used this season.

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On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham reacts to what was said by Donovan Mitchell, James Harden, Evan Mobley and more at the Cleveland Cavaliers Media Day on Monday. Danny begins the show by talking about the Cavs having championship expectations but handling them in the proper way. Next, he talks about certain members of the Cavs passing the eye test, including newcomer Mario Hezonja. Finally, Danny gives other updates on the team from Monday.

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On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham breaks down what it would take to get the Cleveland Cavaliers to the NBA Finals this season. He talks about needing Peyton Watson and Evan Mobley to take steps forward, the Cavaliers to find a bit of luck and more. Next, the conversation shifts to Jaylon Tyson and whether or not he can reach his full potential this season while coming off the bench for the Cavs. Finally, Danny talks about why he doesn’t think the team will be big players in the trade market this season.

Im...

On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham reacts to the season–opening press conference by Kenny Atkinson and Koby Altman on Friday afternoon. Danny starts the show by talking about the most important things he heard from the Cleveland Cavaliers braintrust, including thoughts on Peyton Watson, Donovan Mitchell and the pursuit of LeBron James.

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On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham is joined by Tyler Wojciak (Locked On Irish) to talk through the end of the offseason for the Cleveland Cavaliers and what to expect entering this upcoming season. The guys begin by rehashing the LeBron James experience from earlier this summer. They continue by talking about how Peyton Watson can transform the Cavs and what to expect from Donovan Mitchell, who was named a top 10 player in the NBA by ESPN on Thursday.

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On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham is joined by Tony Pesta (Fear the Sword) to break down the most interesting players on the Cleveland Cavaliers. The guys begin by discussing newcomer Peyton Watson and how he can change the Cavs. Later on, the guys discuss Jaylon Tyson, James Harden and others in Cleveland.

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The Cleveland Cavaliers fans are buzzing—could this finally be the year the Cavs become a true playoff powerhouse? Tim Daniel, Danny Cunningham, Chasity Melvin, and Spencer German tackle whether Donovan Mitchell, James Harden, and rising star Evan Mobley can help Cleveland surpass regular-season expectations when it matters most. Analytics, playoff matchups, and the all-important fifth starter conundrum dominate the conversation as the squad debates if Cleveland’s depth and offseason moves—including the addition of Peyton Watson—will finally deliver postseason results.

Tough questions abound: Did the Cavs dodge a bullet by missing out on LeBron James, o...

On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham reacts to Peyton Watson and Jarrett Allen being named to ESPN’s annual Top 100 players list. Danny begins the show by discussing Watson, who comes in ranked No. 96 in the NBA. He talks about this meaning Watson has established himself as a strong player, still with plenty of room to grow. Next, Danny discusses Allen, who is one of the more consistent players in the NBA. Finally, Danny turns an eye to Detroit to discuss the Jalen Duren situation and how that impacts Cleveland.

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On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham is joined by Spencer Davies to breakdown what tier the Cleveland Cavaliers belong in this season in the Eastern Conference. The guys debate whether or not the Cavs have what it takes to overtake the Knicks at the top of the conference before discussing where other teams fall in line alongside Cleveland and the rest of the East’s elite teams.

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On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham reacts to ESPN’s “Future Power Rankings” that places the Cleveland Cavaliers 10th among all teams in the NBA. Danny starts the show by agreeing with ESPN’s valuation of the roster, stating that not many teams in the NBA have a better group than the Cavs do at the moment. Next, Danny discusses where he disagrees with the list, saying that the Cavs management is better than it’s being given credit for. Finally, Danny talks about the recent front office promotions made by the Cavs. 

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On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham reacts to the introductory press conference of the newest member of the Cleveland Cavaliers, Peyton Watson. Danny opens the show by talking about Watson’s maturity and poise when meeting with the media for the first time in Cleveland and how it translates to the basketball floor. Next, Danny talks about Watson’s defensive fit with the Cavs and how it could be excellent alongside former Defensive Player of the Year Evan Mobley. Finally, Danny talks about the young core of the Cavs looking brighter than many people realize. 

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Can the Cleveland Cavaliers build the NBA’s No. 1 offense by 2027? Peyton Watson’s poise and versatility headline a lively debate as Tim Daniel, Chasity Melvin, and Danny Cunningham break down Watson’s first press conference and his fit alongside Donovan Mitchell and James Harden. What will it take for James Harden to return to elite playmaking form, and is Evan Mobley ready to become a consistent scoring threat? The hosts unpack the keys for Cleveland’s offense to reach new heights, including the development of role players like Nae'qwan Tomlin, Jarrett Allen’s evolving shot profile, and the potential...

On this edition of Locked On Cavs, Danny Cunningham dissects the roster of the Cleveland Cavaliers by asking one big question about each player on the team. Danny starts by taking a look at the projected starting five and wondering if both Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley can level up. Next, he wonders if what Peyton Watson did while in Denver can translate to who he will be for the Cavaliers. Finally, Danny asks questions about the depth the Cavs may have. 

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