The Cleveland Cavaliers have finally found their coach to hopefully lead them to next the level.
According to Adrian Wojnarowski, the Cavaliers are hiring Golden State assistant Kenny Atkinson as the franchise’s next head coach and sides are working on a contract that’s expected to be completed soon.
Atkinson, 57, was the head coach of the Brooklyn Nets for more than three-plus seasons before stepping down in March 2020.
As the Nets coach, Atkinson coached Jarrett Allen and Caris LeVert. He is known to be able to develop talent, which could benefit Evan Mobley.
Notably, Cavs star Donovan Mitchell has reportedly endorsed the move. If he signs the four-year $209M max contract extension this summer, it’s a clear sign of his approval of Atkinson.
On paper, this appears to be a lateral move, but clearly, Cleveland feels Atkinson was an upgrade over J.B. Bickerstaff, who the team fired at season’s end.
During his three-plus seasons with the Nets, Atkinson’s record was 118-190. He also worked as an assistant for the Knicks, Clippers, Hawks, and Warriors.
Last season, the Cavs made it to the second round of the playoffs for the first time since 2018, and they would lose to the Celtics in five.
The NBA Draft is on Wednesday and Thursday. The Cavs will have one selection, which is the 20th pick.
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