Prominent Cavs players believe their current roster cannot contend

Things probably could be better for the Cleveland Cavaliers lately. The team has been slipping down the standings and their inability to get wins against anybody is becoming concerning. Their struggles have caused some players to speak out about how good this roster can be, even when Isaiah Thomas gets his legs under him.

As reported by Dave McMenamin of ESPN (as well as The Athletic’s Jason Lloyd and cleveland.com’s Joe Vardon), some of the Cavs prominent players have spoken up about their concerns regarding the ceiling of their current roster:

Several prominent players, speaking on condition of anonymity to ESPN, Cleveland.com and The Athletic, expressed doubt that the problems -- an aging roster, defensively challenged personnel and a glut of redundant role players -- could simply be worked out through patience and a chance to coalesce when fully healthy.

It’s not too surprising to see it come to this point with the Cavs. The franchise was going to be left in a difficult position after Kyrie Irving demanded a trade. But with the trade, came a replenished cupboard full of assets the team can use to improve this roster.

With free agency looming for Thomas and, more importantly, LeBron James, this deadline is incredibly important for new general manager Koby Altman. Whether it be a blockbuster deal, or one similar to the Dion Waiters trade that helped put the core in a better position to succeed in the playoffs, any action or inaction could dictate the future of this franchise. No pressure.