Initial reactions to Cavs vs. Raptors — and why the 82-game season no longer matters

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, host Ethan Sands, along with reporter Chris Fedor and columnist Jimmy Watkins, analyze the Cleveland Cavaliers' regular-season conclusion and their upcoming first-round playoff series against the Toronto Raptors. Despite an 0-3 regular-season record against Toronto, the guys evaluate the Cavs — now featuring mid-season acquisition James Harden — as heavy favorites against a Raptors team that struggles with half-court offense and 3-point shooting. The discussion highlights the Cavaliers' potential vulnerabilities in transition defense and explores the team's shift away from its former defense-first identity. Ultimately, the panel agrees that the regular season's 52 wins are irrelevant, noting that the true measure of success and the immense pressure on this roster lies entirely in their upcoming postseason run. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices