Cavs have the offense. Now they want the defense back

The Cleveland Cavaliers are focused on returning to an elite defensive standard during training camp after finishing 15th in defensive rating last season. Guard Sam Merrill noted that reclaiming a top-five defensive ranking has been the team's primary discussion, while Donovan Mitchell emphasized that the Cavaliers should not rely solely on their scoring ability to win games.

Head coach Kenny Atkinson highlighted defensive rebounding as a major concern heading into the season. The issue was exposed during Thursday's preseason opener, when the Boston Celtics secured 21 offensive rebounds in a 124-113 victory at Rocket Arena, prompting Atkinson to emphasize improved team defense rather than over-relying on frontcourt rim protectors Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen.