The Cleveland Cavaliers may boast the best record in the NBA, but former “Showtime” Lakers star Norm Nixon isn’t entirely convinced they are legitimate contenders for the championship. In an exclusive chat with TMZ Sports at LAX, Nixon shared his skepticism about Cleveland’s ability to perform under the intense pressure of the NBA playoffs.
Cavs Shine in Regular Season, But Can They Handle the Playoff Spotlight?
The Cavaliers have been one of the biggest surprises this season, dominating the Eastern Conference and securing the top spot in the standings. Led by a young and dynamic core featuring Darius Garland, Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen, Cleveland has been a force to reckon with on both ends of the floor.
However, Nixon is not entirely sold on their championship credentials.
“Until they win—until they can prove they can win on the big stage—that’s the hesitation,” Nixon stated, expressing doubt about whether the Cavs can maintain their high level of play in the grueling postseason.
His comments align with a common sentiment in the basketball community: Regular-season success does not always translate to playoff dominance. The playoffs present a different challenge, where experience, resilience, and mental toughness become just as important as skill and talent.
Nixon’s Playoff Picks: Celtics & Thunder Pose Bigger Threat
While Nixon acknowledges the Cavaliers’ impressive run, he is far more confident in other teams when it comes to making deep playoff runs. Two franchises that he singled out as serious title contenders were the Boston Celtics and the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The Celtics, boasting a stacked roster led by Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and the addition of key veteran pieces like Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porziņģis, have looked dominant all season. Boston’s ability to perform in high-pressure situations and their deep playoff experience make them a formidable opponent.
Meanwhile, the Oklahoma City Thunder, despite being one of the younger teams in the league, have caught Nixon’s eye as a rising powerhouse in the Western Conference. With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander playing at an MVP-caliber level and Chet Holmgren making an immediate impact in his rookie season, the Thunder have surprised many by competing at an elite level.
What About the Lakers? Nixon Weighs In
As a two-time NBA champion with the Lakers, Nixon naturally had to weigh in on the state of his former team. While acknowledging their talent and depth, he emphasized that their postseason success hinges on one crucial factor: health.
“The Lakers have the pieces, but they need to stay healthy. That’s the key,” Nixon explained.
With LeBron James still playing at an elite level and Anthony Davis anchoring the defense, the Lakers have the potential to make a deep playoff run. However, injuries have plagued the team in recent years, raising concerns about whether they can maintain consistency when it matters most.
Cavs’ Road to the Finals: Can They Prove the Doubters Wrong?
Despite Nixon’s skepticism, the Cavaliers have an opportunity to silence their critics and prove that they are more than just a regular-season powerhouse. Their key to success will be:
- Donovan Mitchell’s Leadership: The star guard has playoff experience from his time with the Utah Jazz and will need to elevate his game when the stakes are highest.
- Defensive Prowess: Cleveland has one of the best defenses in the league, and maintaining their intensity will be crucial.
- Supporting Cast Stepping Up: Young players like Evan Mobley and Darius Garland will need to deliver under playoff pressure.
The NBA playoffs are just weeks away, and the biggest question remains: Will the Cavaliers rise to the occasion, or will Nixon’s doubts prove to be true? Basketball fans will be watching closely as the battle for the 2024 NBA championship unfolds.
