Bickerstaff led the Cavaliers to a playoff battle against the former NBA champion Celtics after grabbing Beilein, surviving Kevin Porter Jr. affair, and successfully reunited Donovan Mitchell. But his time quickly ran out, and he was fired. After a tough interview process, the Cavs settled on former Brooklyn Nets coach and Golden State Warriors assistant Kenny Atkinson to take Cleveland to the next level. Much of Cleveland’s future success will depend on an improved Darius Garland and Evan Mobley.
A healthy and effective Garland would reduce Mitchell’s opposing pressure and make the offense less stagnant and predictable. Mobley should take the next step that Atkinson did with Al Horford and Brook Lopez, two traditionally rim-protecting big men who have become some of the most dangerous arc-shooting centers in the league. Mobley’s growth may ultimately be what defines Atkinson’s tenure in Cleveland. Speaking to the media, Atkinson saw the task at hand: a better offensive strategy with more bow strings could be the next step.