Cavs’ Unbeaten Mark Matches Old Seattle SuperSonics In Player Minutes Category

CLEVELAND — It’s only the beginning, but the Cavaliers have already tied one franchise record. That’s just what happens when you’re 8-0.

But did you know they had matched an NBA record when they hit 7-0? And it says a lot about the way new coach Kenny Atkinson is using his starters and stars.

Anyway, as you likely know by now, the 8-0 record matches the best start in franchise history, only done one other time — during the 1976-77 season. That team was led by Campy Russell, Austin Carr and Jim Chones and their quick beginning came immediately following the Miracle of Richfield year. Injuries eventually took their toll, though, and that team ended the season 43-39 and lost in the first round of the playoffs.

But back to 7-0. When today’s Cavs did that, they became just the second team in NBA history to compile that mark with every player averaging less than 30 minutes per game. The only other team to do it? The 1978 Seattle SuperSonics — who, by the way, went on to win the NBA championship.

Interestingly, that Sonics squad was coached by Lenny Wilkens, who went on to become one of the most beloved coaches in Cavaliers history. (Sonics forward Lonnie Shelton later played for the Cavs as well.)

Again, this just shows that the modern Cavs are showing depth, balance and unity in the early season. 

And here’s one other stat to consider — every team that’s started 8-0 since 1994-95 has advanced to at least the conference finals. Granted, there is a long way to go and plenty can and will happen between now and the end of the regular season in April.

But there are worse things than great starts, and these Cavs are starting so well that they’re already going down in NBA lore.

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