The Cleveland Cavaliers have ushered in a new era with Kenny Atkinson at the helm, and the early focus is clear: Evan Mobley is the centerpiece. With Atkinson's appointment as head coach in June, his approach has revolved around optimizing Mobley's talents and, in turn, revitalizing the team’s dynamics. The results are already palpable as the Cavaliers kicked off the season with a 4-0 start, a promising sign of things to come.
Atkinson's vision for Mobley was evident even during the interview process. He asked, "How are we going to use Evan? How are we going to grow his game?" Fast forward to the season's opening game, and Mobley indeed showcased considerable offensive improvements, racking up 25 points in just 27 minutes. His efficiency was notable, with a shooting performance of 9-for-14, signaling his increased prowess under the new system.
Atkinson's coaching philosophy isn't just about filling the stat sheet. Dean Wade, Mobley's teammate, remarked on his transformation, stating, "The way he's playing is so much more aggressive." It's a sentiment echoed by Mobley himself, who appreciates the new offensive framework: "Everyone's buying into the system with the new offense and getting me the ball, getting me the ball where I need it."
The stats further underscore Mobley’s ascendancy. According to NBA.com's tracking data, he now leads the Cavaliers in touches and drives almost twice as frequently compared to last year. This aggression isn't limited to straightforward plays. Mobley is actively pushing the ball in transition after defensive rebounds and even taking it up the court following opponent scores. Such versatility is a testament to the work he put in during the offseason with skills trainer Olin Simplis, focusing on ballhandling and creating, as Simplis explains: "This year, we spent a lot more time ballhandling and creating...turning his drive into a post."
Physically, Mobley stands at 215 pounds and exudes confidence. When he declares, "I feel like I'm just as strong as anyone out here," it's clear that his presence goes beyond his physical stature. Tristan Thompson, a seasoned voice within the team, perhaps best encapsulates Mobley's role, "At this point, there's no real positions. He's just a gifted f---ing basketball player, and I'm glad he's on our team."
The Cavaliers' early success is not solely Mobley's doing, but he undeniably sets the tone for Cleveland's redefined identity. The team's 48-34 finish to the season demonstrated resilience and tenacity. In the postseason, Cleveland claimed victory in a hard-fought seven-game series against the Orlando Magic, marking a significant step forward before eventually succumbing in the semifinals to the Celtics—an outfit bound for the championship.
Despite the tough exit, the campaign underscored a promising future for the Cavaliers. While some might view the crowning of the Celtics as a goal unmet, the manner in which Cleveland challenged such formidable opponents speaks to the potential harbored within this squad, led by Mobley’s dynamism and Atkinson's strategic framework.
Reflecting on their growth, Donovan Mitchell’s words resonate as a testament to their aspirations: "Can we do that when we're exhausted?" It’s a question that goes beyond the physical demands and touches on the mental fortitude required at the highest levels of competition. For the Cavaliers, guided by a new philosophy and a player like Mobley at its heart, they are clearly well-positioned to continue answering that question affirmatively in the seasons to come.