The Cleveland Cavaliers have developed a reputation for delivering in high-pressure situations. On Tuesday, they proved it again. Down by as many as 18 points against the Brooklyn Nets, Cleveland staged a stunning fourth-quarter comeback to secure a 109-104 victory. This win matched their season-opening mark of 15 consecutive victories. More importantly, it reinforced a trend—when the game is on the line, the Cavaliers find a way to win. They lead the NBA with a staggering +37.9 clutch net rating and have the most clutch wins (22). This team thrives in pressure-packed moments, embodying the phrase “ice in their veins.” The Cavaliers’ ability to execute in these moments is why they have a legitimate shot at one of the NBA’s most exclusive achievements—winning 70 games in a season.
Cavaliers Must Use Ice In Their Veins To Power To 70 Wins
The Historical Challenge of 70 Wins
Only two teams in NBA history have surpassed the 70-win mark. The 1995-96 Chicago Bulls, led by Michael Jordan, won 72 games and dominated their way to a championship. The 2015-16 Golden State Warriors broke that record with 73 wins, only to fall short in the Finals against Cleveland.
Both teams had unique advantages. The Bulls benefited from an NBA landscape weakened by expansion, allowing them to dominate lesser competition. The Warriors, meanwhile, revolutionized the game with three-point shooting, an edge no other team had fully grasped at the time.
Winning 70 games requires a perfect storm—elite talent, minimal injuries, and a strong reason to push for every win. Most teams now prioritize rest and long-term health, making a 70-win season seem nearly impossible. However, the Cavaliers are proving they might have what it takes.
Why the Cavaliers Have a Shot at 70 Wins
Cleveland sits at 55-10 with 17 games remaining. To reach 70 wins, they must go 15-2 in their final stretch. This challenge is steep but not impossible.
The Cavaliers have an incentive to keep pushing. While they have all but secured the Eastern Conference’s top seed, they only lead the Oklahoma City Thunder by two games for the NBA’s best record. Holding onto that No. 1 overall seed means home-court advantage in a potential Finals matchup. That’s a strong reason to stay aggressive.
The schedule also works in their favor. They have the 17th easiest schedule left according to Tankathon.com. Their remaining games do not include top-tier teams like the Boston Celtics or Denver Nuggets. Instead, they face teams like the New York Knicks, Indiana Pacers, and Los Angeles Clippers—competitive but not dominant opponents. If Cleveland stays healthy, they will likely be favored in every remaining game.
Managing Health While Chasing History
Health remains the biggest obstacle. On Tuesday, Cleveland played without Donovan Mitchell, De’Andre Hunter, and Ty Jerome. While none of their injuries are long-term concerns, the Cavaliers must carefully balance rest and competitive intensity.
Teams in their position often prioritize playoff readiness over regular-season accolades. The 2016 Warriors pushed hard for 73 wins but ran out of gas in the Finals. Cleveland witnessed that firsthand. They might prefer to avoid a similar fate.
However, if the Cavaliers remain within striking distance of 70 wins heading into the final week, the decision could come down to how their opponents approach those games. The Pacers, currently fighting for playoff positioning, will likely go all-out in their matchups. The Knicks, sitting comfortably in the No. 3 seed, might choose to rest players. The opportunity is there if Cleveland wants it.
High-Pressure Games Build Playoff Readiness
Chasing 70 wins is about more than just making history. It’s about preparation. The Cavaliers’ ability to consistently win close games strengthens their mental toughness. They are playing through high-pressure situations regularly, which will only benefit them in the postseason.
Playoff basketball is defined by tight finishes and clutch performances. Cleveland is sharpening those skills now. Their confidence grows with each comeback victory, reinforcing their belief that no deficit is too large. That mindset will be invaluable in the playoffs.
Can the Cavaliers Get to 70 Wins?
The odds remain against them, but Cleveland has already defied expectations. Winning 15 of their last 17 games will be difficult, but it’s far from impossible. They have the talent, the motivation, and the experience in pressure-filled moments to make a run at history.
If they succeed, they will join one of the most elite clubs in NBA history. If they fall short, they will still enter the playoffs as one of the most battle-tested teams in the league. Either way, the Cavaliers are proving they are built for the moment.
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