2016 - they lost to the Cavs in the ECF - almost guaranteed to make Finals
2017 - they lost to the Cavs in the ECSF (the would've beaten the Celtics had they played them) - strong chance of making Finals
2018* - Cavs are their biggest threat - strong chance of making Finals
That's three realistic chances of making the Finals. Let's not act like the Celtics/Wizards haven't had their fair share of shortcomings over the past two seasons either. What demons have they exorcised, exactly?
Yes, they took the '16 champions (Cavs) to a six-game series. I don't see how it's not realistic to suggest they couldn't beat either of those teams, especially considering IT2's health.