Cavaliers’ playoff collapse exposed problems bigger than James Harden

King James Gospel argues that the Cleveland Cavaliers' sweep against the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference Finals stemmed from issues far deeper than James Harden's struggles. Despite surrendering a 22-point Game 1 lead before losing 115-104 in overtime, the writer notes that head coach Kenny Atkinson's lack of tactical adjustments and Donovan Mitchell's playmaking limitations contributed heavily to the collapse.

The article also highlights roster imbalances, including spacing issues between Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen alongside poor outside shooting. While Cleveland acquired Peyton Watson and retained Harden and Mitchell, writer Creshonda Smith contends the franchise remains vulnerable unless it resolves core systemic and strategic shortcomings.