CLEVELAND, Ohio — The Cavs’ defensive identity has been their calling card for years, but their season opener against the Knicks exposed a vulnerability that opposing teams are eagerly exploiting: perimeter defense.

“I think you just have to ask yourself if you’re playing against the Cavs and you’re trying to find the perceived weak links, who are they? They’re the guys out on the perimeter,” said Chris Fedor, cleveland.com Cavs beat reporter, putting a spotlight on what could become the team’s biggest defensive challenge this season.

While Cleveland still boasts elite rim protection with Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley, their guards and wings are struggling to contain dribble penetration. This weakness was on full display against the Knicks, as Jalen Brunson and his teammates repeatedly f

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