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What does the Cavs' first Christmas Day game since 2017 say about their rise? Wine and Gold Talk podcast

The Cleveland Cavaliers' Return to Christmas Day: A Sign of Their Ascending Status in the NBA

The Cleveland Cavaliers are set to make a highly anticipated return to the NBA's Christmas Day slate for the first time since 2017, facing off against the Los Angeles Lakers in what promises to be a marquee matchup. This development, as discussed in depth on the "Wine and Gold Talk" podcast hosted by Ethan Sands and Chris Fedor, underscores the team's remarkable resurgence and growing relevance in the league. The podcast episode delves into the implications of this scheduling decision, exploring how it reflects the Cavs' evolution from a rebuilding squad to a legitimate contender in the Eastern Conference.

To contextualize this milestone, it's worth recalling the Cavaliers' history with Christmas Day games. During the LeBron James era, the team was a staple on the holiday schedule, appearing in high-profile contests that highlighted their star power and championship aspirations. The 2017 game, a rematch of the previous year's NBA Finals against the Golden State Warriors, marked the end of that golden period. Following James' departure to the Lakers in 2018, the Cavs entered a prolonged rebuild, characterized by lottery picks, coaching changes, and a focus on developing young talent. For years, they were absent from the league's premier showcase days, including Christmas, which are reserved for teams with broad appeal, star players, and compelling narratives.

The announcement of the 2024 Christmas Day game—pitting the Cavs against LeBron James and the Lakers—signals a shift. As Sands and Fedor point out, this isn't just a nod to nostalgia or James' enduring star power; it's a testament to the Cavaliers' own merits. The NBA's Christmas slate is meticulously curated to feature the league's most marketable teams and storylines, often including rivalries, superstars, and emerging powers. By including Cleveland, the league is acknowledging the team's rapid ascent, driven by a core of homegrown talents like Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen. Fedor emphasizes that this scheduling choice validates the front office's strategy, particularly the bold trade for Mitchell in 2022, which transformed the Cavs from a play-in team to a playoff contender.

In the podcast, the hosts break down what this game says about the Cavs' "rise." Sands highlights the team's impressive 2023-24 season, where they finished with a 48-34 record, secured the No. 4 seed in the East, and advanced to the second round of the playoffs before falling to the Boston Celtics. This performance, coupled with Mitchell's All-Star caliber play and the defensive prowess of Mobley and Allen, has elevated the franchise's profile. The Christmas nod, according to Fedor, positions the Cavs alongside elite teams like the Knicks, Warriors, and Lakers, suggesting that the NBA views them as a draw for national audiences. It's not merely about ratings; it's about narrative potential. The matchup against the Lakers revives echoes of the James era, with storylines revolving around his return to Cleveland (albeit not as a Cavalier) and the contrast between the veteran-laden Lakers and the youthful, hungry Cavs.

The discussion extends to broader implications for the team's trajectory. Sands and Fedor speculate on how this exposure could boost the Cavs' brand, attracting free agents and enhancing their marketability. They note that Christmas games often serve as a barometer for a team's status—think of how the Milwaukee Bucks' inclusion in recent years coincided with their championship run. For Cleveland, this could be a stepping stone toward sustained relevance, especially if they build on last season's success. The hosts also touch on the challenges ahead, such as maintaining health, integrating new coach Kenny Atkinson, and navigating a competitive East with powerhouses like Boston, New York, and Philadelphia.

Fedor provides insightful analysis on the roster's dynamics, praising the front office's patience in building around Mitchell and Garland's backcourt synergy, while Mobley's potential as a two-way star could make him a Defensive Player of the Year candidate. The podcast doesn't shy away from realism, acknowledging that the Cavs aren't yet at the level of perennial contenders like the Celtics, but this Christmas berth is a clear indicator of progress. Sands adds a fan perspective, noting the excitement in Cleveland's basketball community, where the team's return to national prominence revives memories of the mid-2010s glory days.

Looking ahead to the game itself, the hosts preview potential matchups. Mitchell versus Anthony Davis could be a highlight, with Garland's playmaking tested against D'Angelo Russell or whoever mans the Lakers' point. The narrative of James facing his former team adds emotional weight, potentially drawing massive viewership. Fedor predicts a close contest, emphasizing the Cavs' home-court advantage at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, where the crowd's energy could play a factor.

The episode also explores league-wide context. Sands points out that the NBA's scheduling decisions reflect broader trends, such as prioritizing young, exciting teams over fading dynasties. The Cavs' inclusion alongside rising squads like the Thunder or Timberwolves illustrates a changing guard in the league. Fedor draws parallels to other franchises' journeys, like the Denver Nuggets, who earned their holiday spots through consistent excellence.

In wrapping up, the podcast hosts express optimism tempered with caution. This Christmas game isn't the pinnacle but a milestone in the Cavs' ascent. It symbolizes validation from the league office, a reward for years of rebuilding, and a platform to showcase their talent on the biggest stage. For fans of the Wine and Gold, it's a holiday gift that reaffirms the team's direction. As Sands eloquently puts it, "The Cavs are back in the spotlight, and it's because they've earned it—not just because of who they're playing." This return to Christmas Day basketball encapsulates the franchise's journey from the ashes of the post-LeBron era to a promising future, with the potential for even greater achievements on the horizon.

The conversation on "Wine and Gold Talk" ultimately paints a picture of a team on the cusp of something special. By dissecting the scheduling significance, player developments, and strategic outlook, Sands and Fedor provide a comprehensive look at why this game matters. It's more than a single matchup; it's a statement about the Cavaliers' place in the NBA ecosystem, signaling that Cleveland is once again a city where basketball dreams are alive and thriving. As the season approaches, this holiday clash could be the spark that propels the Cavs toward deeper playoff runs and, perhaps, a return to championship contention. (Word count: 928)

Read the Full Cleveland.com Article at:
[ https://www.cleveland.com/cavs/2025/08/what-does-the-cavs-first-christmas-day-game-since-2017-say-about-their-rise-wine-and-gold-talk-podcast.html ]