Cleveland Cavaliers: The Best Player In Each Season Of The 21st Century

The Cleveland Cavaliers have had a storied journey throughout the 21st century, filled with ups and downs, iconic players, and unforgettable moments. While the franchise has seen its fair share of struggles, it has also been home to some of the greatest talents in NBA history, most notably LeBron James. From the early 2000s to the post-LeBron era, the Cavaliers have been shaped by the players who led them on the court each season.

2000-01 Season – Andre Miller

Stats: 15.8 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 8.0 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

The 2000-01 season saw Andre Miller emerge as the Cleveland Cavaliers’ best player. In just his second NBA season, Miller displayed excellent court vision and playmaking abilities, averaging 8.0 assists per game, which placed him among the league’s leaders in that category. His ability to distribute the ball and control the tempo of the game made him a standout on a Cavaliers team that was struggling to find its identity.

Miller also contributed 15.8 points per game, becoming a reliable scorer while still focusing on getting his teammates involved. The Cavaliers finished the season with a 30-52 record, missing the playoffs, but Miller’s development as a floor general provided a glimmer of hope for the franchise moving forward.

2001-02 Season – Andre Miller

Stats: 16.5 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 10.9 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA Assists Leader

Andre Miller took another leap in his third season, establishing himself as one of the top point guards in the league. He led the NBA in assists, averaging a career-high 10.9 assists per game, while also contributing 16.5 points and 4.7 rebounds. Miller’s ability to create opportunities for his teammates made him the clear leader of the Cavaliers.

Despite Miller’s outstanding individual performance, the Cavaliers finished the season with a disappointing 29-53 record, again missing the playoffs. The team struggled to surround Miller with the talent needed to compete in a tough Eastern Conference. Following the season, Miller was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, signaling the start of another rebuild for Cleveland.

2002-03 Season – Ricky Davis

Stats: 20.6 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 5.5 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

The 2002-03 season was a challenging one for the Cleveland Cavaliers, but Ricky Davis emerged as the team’s most dynamic player. Davis averaged 20.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game, leading the Cavaliers in both scoring and assists. His ability to score from anywhere on the court and his flashy style of play made him a fan favorite, even as the team struggled.

The Cavaliers finished the season with a 17-65 record, the worst in the NBA, which ultimately led to them winning the draft lottery and selecting LeBron James in the following draft. Despite the poor team performance, Davis’s individual contributions stood out, as he was the only bright spot in an otherwise bleak season.

2003-04 Season – LeBron James

Stats: 20.9 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 5.9 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA Rookie of the Year, NBA All-Rookie First Team

The 2003-04 season marked the arrival of LeBron James, one of the most highly anticipated rookies in NBA history. LeBron did not disappoint, averaging 20.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game, earning him the NBA Rookie of the Year award. His impact was immediate, as he transformed the Cavaliers from a bottom-dweller into a competitive team.

LeBron’s versatility and ability to contribute in every aspect of the game were on full display throughout the season. The Cavaliers improved their record to 35-47, showing significant progress with their new star at the helm. Although they missed the playoffs, LeBron’s rookie season laid the foundation for what would become one of the most successful periods in franchise history.

2004-05 Season – LeBron James

Stats: 27.2 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 7.2 APG, 2.2 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA Second Team

LeBron James continued his rapid ascent during the 2004-05 season, establishing himself as one of the premier players in the league. He averaged 27.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game, leading the Cavaliers in all three categories. LeBron’s ability to dominate games with his scoring, playmaking, and defensive prowess earned him his first NBA All-Star selection and a spot on the All-NBA Second Team.

Under LeBron’s leadership, the Cavaliers finished the season with a 42-40 record, narrowly missing the playoffs. Although they fell short of a postseason berth, LeBron’s impact was undeniable, as he nearly single-handedly elevated the team to playoff contention. His performances throughout the season solidified his status as one of the league’s brightest young stars.

2005-06 Season – LeBron James

Stats: 31.4 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 6.6 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA First Team

LeBron James took his game to another level in the 2005-06 season, finishing third in the NBA in scoring with an average of 31.4 points per game. He also contributed 7.0 rebounds and 6.6 assists per game, showcasing his all-around ability to impact the game in multiple ways. LeBron’s stellar play earned him a spot on the All-NBA First Team and his second consecutive All-Star appearance.

The Cavaliers, fueled by LeBron’s heroics, finished the regular season with a 50-32 record, earning their first playoff berth since 1998. In the playoffs, LeBron led the Cavaliers to the Eastern Conference Semifinals, where they were narrowly defeated by the Detroit Pistons in a seven-game series. LeBron’s performances during the season and playoffs demonstrated that he was not only the future of the Cavaliers but one of the elite players in the entire NBA.

2006-07 Season – LeBron James

Stats: 27.3 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 6.0 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA Second Team

The 2006-07 season was a breakthrough year for LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers. LeBron continued to dominate, averaging 27.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game. His ability to take over games with his scoring and playmaking, coupled with his defensive efforts, earned him another All-Star selection and a place on the All-NBA Second Team.

LeBron’s leadership on the court propelled the Cavaliers to a 50-32 record, securing the second seed in the Eastern Conference. The postseason was historic for the franchise as LeBron led the Cavaliers to their first-ever NBA Finals appearance. Along the way, LeBron delivered one of the most memorable performances in playoff history, scoring 25 consecutive points for the Cavaliers in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Detroit Pistons. Although the Cavaliers were swept by the San Antonio Spurs in the Finals, LeBron’s 2006-07 season solidified his status as one of the best players in the league.

2007-08 Season – LeBron James

Stats: 30.0 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 7.2 APG, 1.8 SPG, 1.1 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA First Team, NBA Scoring Champion

LeBron James continued his upward trajectory during the 2007-08 season, leading the NBA in scoring with 30.0 points per game. He also averaged 7.9 rebounds and 7.2 assists, further demonstrating his all-around dominance. LeBron’s performances earned him his first NBA scoring title, another All-NBA First Team selection, and yet another All-Star appearance.

Despite LeBron’s individual brilliance, the Cavaliers faced challenges throughout the season and finished with a 45-37 record. In the playoffs, LeBron once again carried the team, but the Cavaliers were eliminated in the second round by the Boston Celtics in a seven-game series. Even though the season ended in disappointment, LeBron’s achievements and leadership kept the Cavaliers competitive and relevant in a tough Eastern Conference.

2008-09 Season – LeBron James

Stats: 28.4 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 7.2 APG, 1.7 SPG, 1.1 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA MVP, NBA All-Star, All-NBA First Team, NBA All-Defensive First Team

The 2008-09 season was a defining moment for LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers. LeBron delivered one of the most complete seasons in NBA history, averaging 28.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game. His dominance on both ends of the floor earned him his first NBA MVP award, solidifying his place as the best player in the league. LeBron was also named to the All-NBA First Team and the NBA All-Defensive First Team, further showcasing his impact on both offense and defense.

Under LeBron’s leadership, the Cavaliers finished the regular season with an NBA-best 66-16 record, securing the top seed in the Eastern Conference. The team cruised through the first two rounds of the playoffs, but their season came to an end when they were defeated by the Orlando Magic in the Eastern Conference Finals. LeBron’s 2008-09 season remains one of the most remarkable individual campaigns in NBA history.

2009-10 Season – LeBron James

Stats: 29.7 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 8.6 APG, 1.6 SPG, 1.0 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA MVP, NBA All-Star, All-NBA First Team, NBA All-Defensive First Team

LeBron James followed up his MVP season with another outstanding year in 2009-10. He increased his scoring to 29.7 points per game, while also averaging 7.3 rebounds and a career-high 8.6 assists. His all-around excellence earned him his second consecutive NBA MVP award, as well as selections to the All-NBA First Team and NBA All-Defensive First Team.

The Cavaliers, driven by LeBron’s exceptional play, finished the regular season with a 61-21 record, once again earning the top seed in the Eastern Conference. However, their postseason run was cut short by the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. This season marked the end of LeBron’s first tenure with the Cavaliers, as he decided to join the Miami Heat in the summer of 2010. LeBron’s 2009-10 season solidified his legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history.

2010-11 Season – Antawn Jamison

Stats: 18.0 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 1.7 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

The 2010-11 season was a period of transition for the Cleveland Cavaliers following LeBron James’ departure to the Miami Heat. Antawn Jamison emerged as the team’s leading scorer, averaging 18.0 points per game while also contributing 6.7 rebounds. Jamison’s experience and scoring ability provided some stability to a Cavaliers team that struggled to find its footing after losing its superstar.

The Cavaliers finished the season with a 19-63 record, reflecting the challenges of rebuilding after losing one of the best players in NBA history. While the season was tough for the franchise, Jamison’s consistent performance was a bright spot, and he played a key role in helping the team navigate this difficult transition period.

2011-12 Season – Kyrie Irving

Stats: 18.5 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 5.4 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA Rookie of the Year, NBA All-Rookie First Team

The 2011-12 season marked the arrival of Kyrie Irving, the first overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft. Irving quickly established himself as the future of the franchise, leading the Cavaliers with 18.5 points and 5.4 assists per game. His exceptional ball-handling, scoring ability, and court vision earned him the NBA Rookie of the Year award and a place on the NBA All-Rookie First Team.

The Cavaliers, still in the early stages of their rebuild, finished the season with a 21-45 record in the lockout-shortened season. Despite the team’s struggles, Irving’s emergence as a young star provided hope for the future. His performances throughout the season laid the foundation for the Cavaliers’ eventual return to prominence.

2012-13 Season – Kyrie Irving

Stats: 22.5 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 5.9 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star

During the 2012-13 season, Kyrie Irving solidified his role as the Cleveland Cavaliers’ leader, averaging 22.5 points and 5.9 assists per game. His dynamic playmaking and scoring ability earned him his first NBA All-Star selection, making him one of the league’s most exciting young talents. Irving’s ball-handling skills and clutch performances were crucial as he began to establish himself as the franchise’s cornerstone.

The Cavaliers, still in a rebuilding phase, finished the season with a 24-58 record. Irving’s individual brilliance continued to be the highlight of the team’s efforts, setting the stage for his future impact on the franchise.

2013-14 Season – Kyrie Irving

Stats: 20.8 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 6.1 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, NBA All-Star Game MVP

Kyrie Irving continued to lead the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2013-14 season, posting averages of 20.8 points and 6.1 assists per game. His exceptional play earned him another NBA All-Star selection, and he shined in the All-Star Game, winning the MVP award with a dazzling performance. Irving’s ability to take over games and his clutch playmaking were on full display throughout the season.

The Cavaliers showed some improvement, finishing with a 33-49 record, but still missed the playoffs. Irving’s performances kept the team competitive and highlighted his role as the driving force behind the Cavaliers as they looked to return to prominence.

2014-15 Season – LeBron James

Stats: 25.3 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 7.4 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA First Team

The 2014-15 season marked the return of LeBron James to the Cleveland Cavaliers, and his impact was immediate. LeBron averaged 25.3 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 7.4 assists per game, re-establishing himself as the leader of the team. His all-around game and leadership were key in transforming the Cavaliers into title contenders. LeBron’s performance earned him another NBA All-Star selection and a spot on the All-NBA First Team.

With LeBron back in the fold, the Cavaliers finished the regular season with a 53-29 record, good for second place in the Eastern Conference. The team advanced to the NBA Finals, where they faced the Golden State Warriors. Despite injuries to key players, LeBron put on an incredible performance, though the Cavaliers ultimately fell to the Warriors in six games. LeBron’s return to Cleveland reinvigorated the franchise and set the stage for future success.

2015-16 Season – LeBron James

Stats: 25.3 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 6.8 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA First Team, NBA Finals MVP

LeBron James continued to lead the Cleveland Cavaliers during the 2015-16 season, delivering another stellar campaign with averages of 25.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game. His consistent excellence earned him another NBA All-Star selection and a place on the All-NBA First Team. However, the defining moment of the season came in the playoffs, where LeBron led the Cavaliers to their first NBA Championship.

In the NBA Finals, the Cavaliers faced the Golden State Warriors in a rematch from the previous year. LeBron was sensational, leading the Cavaliers back from a 3-1 deficit to win the series in seven games. His performance in the Finals earned him the NBA Finals MVP award, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history. The 2015-16 season is remembered as one of the most significant in franchise history, with LeBron delivering on his promise to bring a championship to Cleveland.

2016-17 Season – LeBron James

Stats: 26.4 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 8.7 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA First Team

LeBron James continued to dominate during the 2016-17 season, delivering another remarkable campaign for the Cleveland Cavaliers. He averaged 26.4 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 8.7 assists per game, once again proving his all-around excellence. LeBron’s leadership and performance on both ends of the floor earned him another NBA All-Star selection and a spot on the All-NBA First Team.

The Cavaliers finished the regular season with a 51-31 record, securing the second seed in the Eastern Conference. In the playoffs, LeBron led the Cavaliers to their third consecutive NBA Finals appearance, where they faced the Golden State Warriors for the third straight year. Although the Cavaliers fell short in the Finals, losing in five games, LeBron’s performances throughout the season and playoffs were nothing short of extraordinary, further solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time.

2017-18 Season – LeBron James

Stats: 27.5 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 9.1 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.9 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA First Team

The 2017-18 season saw LeBron James deliver one of the most impressive seasons of his career. He averaged 27.5 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 9.1 assists per game, leading the Cavaliers in all three categories. LeBron’s ability to carry the team night after night was on full display, earning him yet another NBA All-Star selection and a place on the All-NBA First Team.

The Cavaliers finished the regular season with a 50-32 record, once again securing a spot in the playoffs. LeBron’s playoff run was legendary, as he carried the Cavaliers through multiple seven-game series, including a memorable Game 7 performance against the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Finals. The Cavaliers made it to the NBA Finals for the fourth consecutive year, but were swept by the Golden State Warriors. LeBron’s incredible season, both in the regular season and the playoffs, further cemented his status as one of the greatest players in the history of the game. This season also marked the end of his second stint with the Cavaliers, as he would go on to join the Los Angeles Lakers in the summer of 2018.

2018-19 Season – Collin Sexton

Stats: 16.7 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 3.0 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Rookie Second Team

Collin Sexton emerged as the Cleveland Cavaliers’ most promising young player during the 2018-19 season. In his rookie year, Sexton averaged 16.7 points and 3.0 assists per game, quickly becoming the team’s leading scorer and showcasing his potential as a future star. His fearless approach and scoring ability were key highlights in an otherwise tough season for the Cavaliers.

The Cavaliers finished the season with a 19-63 record, as they continued to navigate the post-LeBron era and rebuild the team. Sexton’s performance earned him a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Second Team, providing a bright spot for the franchise and giving fans hope for the future as the team focused on developing its young talent.

2019-20 Season – Kevin Love

Stats: 17.6 PPG, 9.8 RPG, 3.2 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

Kevin Love continued to serve as the cornerstone of the Cleveland Cavaliers during the 2019-20 season. He averaged 17.6 points and 9.8 rebounds per game, leading the team in both categories. Love’s ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and his veteran presence were crucial for a young Cavaliers team still in the midst of a rebuild.

The Cavaliers finished the season with a 19-46 record before the season was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Love remained a consistent performer and mentor for the younger players, helping to guide them through a challenging period in the franchise’s history. His role as a leader both on and off the court was key as the team continued to develop its young talent.

2020-21 Season – Collin Sexton

Stats: 24.3 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 4.4 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

Collin Sexton took a significant leap during the 2020-21 season, becoming the Cleveland Cavaliers’ leading scorer and a central figure in their offense. He averaged 24.3 points per game, along with 4.4 assists, showcasing his ability to score at will and create opportunities for his teammates. Sexton’s aggressive scoring style and improved playmaking were the driving forces behind the Cavaliers’ efforts throughout the season.

The Cavaliers ended the season with a 22-50 record, reflecting the ongoing rebuild as they sought to develop their young core. Sexton’s breakout season provided hope for the future, as he demonstrated his potential to be a foundational piece for the franchise moving forward.

2021-22 Season – Darius Garland

Stats: 21.7 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 8.6 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star

Darius Garland emerged as the leader of the Cleveland Cavaliers during the 2021-22 season, putting up 21.7 points and 8.6 assists per game. His ability to orchestrate the offense and score efficiently earned him his first NBA All-Star selection. Garland’s growth as a playmaker and scorer was instrumental in helping the Cavaliers become more competitive.

The Cavaliers finished the season with a 44-38 record, making a strong push for the playoffs but ultimately falling short in the play-in tournament. Garland’s performances throughout the season solidified his role as the team’s primary playmaker and a key figure in the Cavaliers’ future plans. His All-Star nod was a testament to his development and the bright future ahead for both him and the franchise.

2022-23 Season – Donovan Mitchell

Stats: 28.3 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 4.4 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA Second Team

In his debut season with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Donovan Mitchell quickly established himself as the team’s top scorer and overall leader. Mitchell put up 28.3 points per game, the highest average of his career at that point, while also contributing 4.3 rebounds and 4.4 assists. His electrifying performances on the court earned him a well-deserved spot on the All-NBA Second Team, as well as an All-Star selection.

The Cavaliers ended the regular season with a solid 51-31 record, earning a spot in the playoffs. Mitchell’s contributions were vital, though their postseason journey came to an end in the first round at the hands of the New York Knicks. Despite the early exit, Mitchell’s influence was crucial in the Cavaliers’ strong season and their return to playoff contention.

2023-24 Season – Donovan Mitchell

Stats: 26.6 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 6.1 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star

Donovan Mitchell continued to shine for the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2023-24 season, where he averaged 26.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game. His relentless effort on both ends of the court, highlighted by 1.8 steals per game, earned him another NBA All-Star selection. Mitchell’s ability to lead and perform consistently kept the Cavaliers competitive throughout the season.

The Cavaliers finished the regular season with a 48-34 record, securing their playoff spot once again. In the first round, they faced a tough battle against the Orlando Magic, coming out victorious in a thrilling seven-game series. Their playoff run, though promising, was halted in the Eastern Conference Semifinals by the Boston Celtics, who won the series 4-1. Mitchell’s impact was undeniable, keeping the Cavaliers in the mix as they navigated another challenging postseason.