INDEPENDENCE, Ohio -- Following a brief film session with assistant coach Phil Handy -- something that will become a necessity to get up to speed -- George Hill strolled over to the media section on the opposite side of the luxurious practice court.

He was stunned by the setup, with reporters placing their recording devices on a stand in front of him rather than shoving them in his face.

"Right here? Damn, this is new stuff," Hill said to one of the members of the communications staff.

That's just the start. It's been two weeks since Hill was brought to Cleveland in a three-way deal with the Sacramento Kings and Utah Jazz, a massive overhaul that rejuvenated a proud championship team marching toward a slow death.

Hill, the team's new starting point guard, has been living out of a suitcase since, away from his fiancee and two kids -- including a one-month-old newborn daughter -- all of whom are currently in Texas. Despite the hasty change, Hill, like the rest of the Cavaliers, is excited after getting new life.

"It's a blessing," Hill said. "I was in a tough situation. I thanked them for all they did, but I think my time there was done. To get another opportunity, not just to come and play but to possibly play for a championship is something that I've had early in my career going against him in Miami with the three-headed monster and the cat spoiling my summer. Now I get a chance to be a part of something special and get an opportunity to go to the Finals.

"I just pray every morning and every night. I thank that I was put in the situation I am today."

Since Hill's arrival, along with Rodney Hood, Larry Nance Jr. and Jordan Clarkson, the Cavs are 2-0. It's been nine days since they were polishing off a signature win against the star-studded Oklahoma City Thunder. On Thursday against the fourth-seeded Washington Wizards, the Cavs will quickly try to recapture their pre-All-Star break form.

"Just go out there and play," Hill said. "I feel like we can't put no pressure on ourself. We've got to just go out and compete on both ends of the floor, defend like we've been doing and moving the ball offensively like we've been doing and just having fun."

According to Hill, a team playing without joy shows up most on the defensive end. Fitting response given Cleveland's early-season troubles.

Even though he joined the Cavs two weeks ago and has played in just two games with his new teammates, Hill is still getting acclimated to his new surroundings and learning plenty about the Cleveland way.

Wednesday was his first practice inside Cleveland Clinic Courts. Thursday was the first time he drove to the facility for shootaround. Later tonight, after playing 13 games as an opponent, Hill will make his inaugural trip to Quicken Loans Arena as the good guy.

"I'm happy I'm on the other side now," Hill said with a smile. "Very tough place to play. The fans are super loyal here and super energetic so I'm happy I'm going to be sitting on the home side this time where they're going to cheer for us rather than against us."