INDEPENDENCE, Ohio — About a month ago, following their lopsided win over the Washington Wizards in NBA Cup play that helped boost their point differential, one member of the Cavs immediately asked for the result of Toronto-Atlanta — another game happening simultaneously within the same group.

That player knew the stakes. He had his sights on Vegas.

The Cavs won’t be going to the desert this weekend — officially eliminated from Cup contention on Nov. 28 as a result of a 130-123 setback to the Hawks.

Their consolation prize: Five days off, an early-season pause.

Only this week is far from a respite.

Cavs’ talent isn’t the problem — it’s their mindset

The Cavs are feeling the true meaning of a wide-open Eastern Conference

How will the Cavs shake things up after their 5-day break? Wine

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