The Cleveland Cavaliers have chosen Kenny Atkinson as their new head coach, just days before the NBA draft. Atkinson, who was previously an assistant coach with the Golden State Warriors, has agreed to lead the Cavs’ young team.
Atkinson brings valuable experience to Cleveland. He helped rebuild the Brooklyn Nets as their head coach from 2016 to 2020, improving the team’s performance and guiding them to a playoff berth in 2019. After leaving Brooklyn, he spent time with the Los Angeles Clippers before joining the Warriors’ coaching staff.
The Cavaliers had been searching for a new coach since firing J.B. Bickerstaff last month, despite the team’s recent success. Bickerstaff had led the Cavs to two straight playoff appearances and showed steady progress.
Atkinson stood out among at least six candidates interviewed by the Cavs. The team was looking for someone with head coaching experience, a focus on offense, and a strong record in player development. Atkinson met all these criteria.
One of Atkinson’s main tasks will be to improve Cleveland’s offense, which was a weak point under Bickerstaff. His experience working with star players like Stephen Curry at Golden State should help him develop strategies for the Cavs’ talented young core, including Donovan Mitchell, Jarrett Allen, Darius Garland, and Evan Mobley.
The Cavaliers’ front office, led by Koby Altman and Mike Gansey, made the final decision to hire Atkinson, with team owner Dan Gilbert approving the choice. This is Cleveland’s first coaching change in five years.
With the coaching position filled, the Cavaliers can now focus on other important off-season tasks. These include trying to secure a long-term contract extension with All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell, preparing for this week’s NBA draft (where they have the 20th overall pick), and potentially making trades or signing free agents to improve the team.
Atkinson’s hiring marks the beginning of a new era for the Cavaliers as they aim to build on their recent success and become a stronger contender in the Eastern Conference.