The Cavaliers project a clearer path to the Finals through Mobley’s growth and a healthier, deeper core, while the Clippers lean into depth and frontcourt versatility to stay dangerous even if senior stars miss time. Chicago eyes a youth surge from Buzelis and Asen, and Portland bets on development over immediate glory with Scoot Henderson anchoring a defensive-minded, lottery-driven rebuild. Across the league, stars like Durant and Edwards highlight how star power still shapes playoff odds.

Cleveland’s core faces a season where health and minutes shape fantasy value. Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley look primed for bounce-back years after top-tier usage, while Darius Garland’s health and minutes will influence everything from Mitchell’s ceiling to Allen’s block-and-field-goal impact. Jared Allen’s durability anchors the frontcourt, and the Cavaliers’ rotation could feature Lonzo Ball and Ty Jerome as late-year depth if injuries pop. The over/under 55.5 wins invites caution, but the AAC-level depth of the Cavs’ lineup offers late-round upside as health realigns roles.

Mobley’s expanded role, Garland’s return-to-form potential, and Allen’s steady floor keep Cleveland’s fantasy narrative strong, even if the team isn’t the juggernaut of last season. As depth pieces like DeAndre Hunter or Max Strus surface in potential short-term gaps, managers should target the Cavs’ stars early and then chase value with careful backcourt depth and injury contingency plans.