With Big Z Back in Uniform, Cavaliers Make a Mile High Statement in Denver

Denver, Co.  Well it finally happened!  For those of you that have been waiting for one of the big three (Boston, Cleveland, and L.A.) to make a statement against a good team in a hostile environment, wait no more.

LeBron and the Cavs welcomed back Big Z after he missed the last three games with a mild ankle sprain.  He went out and dismantled the Nuggets on their home floor 105-88.  This game was never in doubt as the Cavaliers led by 16 after the first quarter and were never seriously threatened over the final three quarters.

LeBron James led all scorers with 33 points and he had plenty of help, as Big Z returned to the lineup with 23 points and Delonte West continued to thrive in his new role as the starting two guard for the underrated Cavs by contributing 22 points.   

Say what you will about the quality of competition the Cavaliers have faced early on in the season, but with the exception of what the Boston Celtics have done thus far, no team in the league has been more impressive.  Statistically, the Cavs rank in the top 10 in points, rebounds, blocked shots, assists, turnovers, and points allowed per game (Talk about getting it done on both ends of the floor).

The most telling thing about this team is the fact that someone else steps up every night.  LeBron, of course, is a man among boys and will always affect the game in a positive way.  But, he does not (and has not) had to lead this team in the scoring column every night as in past years.  

The addition of Moe Williams and the emergence of bro red fro at the two has taken a lot of the scoring burden off of LeBron, and has given the Cavaliers' offense more balance than I'm sure even they were expecting. Especially, when you consider how well this team has gelled at such an early stage in the season.

Mike Brown is getting solid contributions from all five of his starters (and yes that includes Big Ben).  He's going four or five men deep into his bench on a regular basis and along the way making sure to give his rooks some seasoning.  That should go a long way towards helping this team come playoff time, or should they suffer a significant injury during the regular season. 

They've proven over the last week that they can overcome adversity, winning four of their last five, despite losing Daniel "Boobie" Gibson for two weeks with a toe injury and Big Z for the last three games prior to last night with that ankle sprain.

The Cavaliers have the largest average margin of victory in the league.  Also, they arguably have the best player in the league, shooters to spread the floor, and a deep and dangerous bench that not only can hold a lead, but even have the audacity to extend leads with The Bron on the bench. And it's not even Christmas yet! 

Don't get me wrong, no one is going to just give them the ring.  It's only December and we all know NBA titles are won in June. But, if the early results are any indication of whats to come, this team might just have what it takes to go out and take the title come warmer weather.  And that Cleveland would be exactly what this city has been starving to WITNESS.