Just as soon as the Eastern Conference finals began for the Cleveland Cavaliers, it ended.
After getting swept by the Knicks, Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert made it clear that he’s not satisfied with bowing out in the Eastern Conference finals.
“We took a step ahead this spring, but we are nowhere near where we need to be. I can’t thank the fans enough for the support this year. We will dig in all summer and do everything we possibly can to take the next step. We will grind until we get there,” Gilbert wrote on X.
“Congrats to the @nyknicks, and best of luck in the Finals.”
Gilbert is no stranger to emotional responses following disappointing moments.
He slammed LeBron James for a “cowardly betrayal” after the superstar left the Cavaliers for the Heat during his infamous “The Decision” interview on ESPN in 2010.
This statement comes following a Cavaliers season that began with huge expectations, the highest payroll in the league and a roster filled with superstars ultimately ending on a sour note.
Forward Evan Mobley and guard Donovan Mitchell led the charge at the beginning of the season before the Cavaliers acquired James Harden in a blockbuster trade with the Los Angeles Clippers on Feb. 4.
The Cavaliers finished fourth in the Eastern Conference to make the playoffs for the fourth straight reached, eventually taking down the top-seeded Pistons in seven games to reach the conference finals.
But that is where the playoff run ended.
The sweep made for a rather disappointing end to an otherwise successful season, although some viewed the bitter ending as motivation for next year.
“I have no doubt that this group can get there,” Mitchell said after the Game 4 defeat Monday.
“I’ve said that all year. The biggest thing is you just use it as a learning lesson. It’s a tough learning lesson, but now we know.”
Harden reiterated that he would be open to returning as the 36-year-old guard enters free agency this offseason.
“Definitely want to be here,” Harden said Monday. “I think we found something. It’s tough. It’s not ending how we wanted to, but I think we found something.”
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While it is not a foregone conclusion that the same core will run it back next season, both Gilbert and Cavalier fans will hope that the team can take the next step.