After an improbable start the NBA season, the Cavaliers currently find themselves in the midst of a three game losing streak. The team is dealing with multiple injuries to key players, most recently with the addition of Rajon Rondo. Rondo sprained his toe in last night's loss to Detroit, and is expected to miss two weeks of action.
Despite all of this, head coach J.B. Bickerstaff isn't feeling the heat. "I just think collectively last night, we weren't mentally prepared to do the job." he told the media this afternoon. But Bickerstaff came into today with with just one sentiment in mind: stay aggressive.
Bickerstaff made it a point to say that he's not feeling any pressure when it comes to maintaining the team's current playoff standing, but by no means is he ready to be complacent. He specifically called out star rookie Evan Mobley, saying that Mobley's aggressiveness will be a key to the team's success through the end of the year.
It was obvious that coach Bickerstaff made this his philosophy clear to the team, as his words were echoed by Cedi Osman when he spoke the media. Osman said that after a tough start, the Cavs are ready to prove that they're still a contender. "We we're a little sluggish yesterday, but tomorrow is another opportunity for us against a good team to prove we are the same team we were before the break," Osman told reporters. He added that it's always hard to start up again after All-Star weekend, but that having mental toughness across the team will help them push through.
Also of note, coach Bickerstaff gave an update on Lauri Markkanen. After coming off an ankle injury that has sidelined him since January 22, Markkanen was a full participant for his second straight practice. He played 28 minutes last night, dropping 22 points with 6 rebounds.
The Cavaliers are back in action Saturday night, as they host the Washington Wizards to start a three-game home stand. Tipoff is set for 8:00pm.
