Kenny Atkinson is enjoying a remarkable debut season as the head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers, with the team achieving an impressive 10-0 record. After a standout performance against the Golden State Warriors, where the Cavaliers secured a 136-117 victory, Atkinson expressed his excitement over the milestone. “10-0 is something. It’s kind of a magic number, right?” he noted, acknowledging the challenge posed by the defending champions. The team’s readiness and determination took him by surprise, showcasing their hunger for success.
Key players Darius Garland and Evan Mobley played pivotal roles in the triumph, scoring 27 and 23 points, respectively. This victory made the Cavaliers the first team in NBA history to start its season with ten straight wins, scoring at least 110 points in each game. The Cavaliers’ offensive prowess has made them a force in the league, leading with an average of 124.5 points per game and a field goal percentage of .526. This offensive surge marks a significant improvement from the previous season under coach J.B. Bickerstaff, during which they averaged 112.6 points per game.
General Manager Koby Altman made a pivotal choice in hiring Atkinson, who previously spent three years as an assistant coach under Warriors’ coach Steve Kerr. Kerr praised Atkinson’s coaching style and noted how his contributions have enhanced an already competitive team. Atkinson’s high-paced, lethal offense has resonated well with the players, specifically All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell, and has allowed the integration of previous connections with players like Jarrett Allen and Caris LeVert to flourish.
Cleveland’s depth is paying dividends, with ten players averaging over 15 minutes of play without any individual exceeding 30 minutes, promoting a strong team chemistry. Backup guard Ty Jerome, who scored a season-high 20 points against Golden State, noted the positive atmosphere, stating, “Everybody is making shots, and everyone is having fun.”
Although the Cavaliers are experiencing a historic start, several players, including Allen, emphasized that they still have room for improvement. They have acknowledged issues such as turnovers and rebounding, which can be refined as the season progresses. Nevertheless, the optimism surrounding the team’s potential is palpable, and the commitment to improvement speaks volumes about their drive.
This exhilarating start to the season offers fans a hopeful view of what may come, highlighting the Cavaliers’ dedication to playing together, their competitive spirit, and the transformative impact Atkinson has had on the team. With this strong foundation, the Cavaliers possess the potential to achieve great things in the upcoming season.