Quiet speculation about Kenny Atkinson’s future has surfaced as the Cleveland Cavaliers struggle to regain last season’s form, but league sources indicate the organization is not preparing an immediate coaching change.
NBA insider Marc Stein reported in his latest Substack that coaches around the league have noticed Cleveland’s recent slide. The Cavaliers are 15-14 after losing eight of their last 11 games, a stark contrast to the Eastern Conference–best record they posted a year ago.
According to Stein, team owner Dan Gilbert is displeased with the team’s uneven play, intensifying questions about Atkinson’s job security. However, a source familiar with the situation told Stein that Gilbert is unlikely to act quickly. Gilbert strongly supported Atkinson during the hiring process, choosing him over James Borrego, who is now the interim head coach in New Orleans.
While rumblings persist, the prevailing expectation is that Atkinson will have time to steady the club. Continued struggles, though, could amplify the scrutiny surrounding the Cavaliers’ bench.
Source: Hoops Wire
