The Cleveland Cavaliers have to go through LeBron James to get to the Finals

Writer Creshonda Smith argues that the Cleveland Cavaliers' path to the NBA Finals may require overcoming former franchise icon LeBron James, who has returned to the Eastern Conference by joining the Philadelphia 76ers. With Philadelphia adding James alongside Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Jaylen Brown, the writer asserts that the Sixers have re-emerged as a major roadblock for Cleveland's championship aspirations.

The article notes that Cleveland boasts a strong core featuring Donovan Mitchell, James Harden, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen. However, Smith highlights that after being swept by the New York Knicks in the previous conference finals, the Cavaliers will face steep competition from a star-studded Philadelphia roster.