Cavaliers outline rapid integration plan for newly acquired James Harden
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The Cleveland Cavaliers wasted no time after finalizing the trade for James Harden. Within hours of the deal, head coach Kenny Atkinson began detailing how the 36-year-old guard will be used alongside the club’s current core.
Atkinson’s first move was to phone Mike D’Antoni, the coach who oversaw Harden’s most productive seasons in Houston. “We’d be foolish not to study those Houston years and see what can translate,” Atkinson said, noting the All-Star’s previous success under D’Antoni’s system.
While Harden’s recent stint with the Los Angeles Clippers showed his adaptability, Atkinson believes the veteran still has the ability to dominate or facilitate as needed. That versatility, he said, raises Cleveland’s ceiling.
“Our ceiling is obviously higher with a guy like James Harden,” guard Donovan Mitchell explained. “Now it’s on us to execute.” Mitchell acknowledged an upcoming adjustment period but called the timing “right” for the roster.
The Cavaliers expect Harden’s playmaking to benefit their front-court tandem of Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. “What I’m most excited for is what he can do for JA and Ev,” Mitchell added. Atkinson echoed that outlook, calling the club “already a strong pick-and-roll team” that now features “one of the greatest ever” in that action.
Shooters such as Sam Merrill, Max Strus and rookie Jaylon Tyson, as well as guards Dennis Schröder and Keon Ellis, are also projected to see cleaner looks with Harden directing the offense.
For now, the staff is emphasizing on-court chemistry over complex adjustments. “Great players usually figure it out,” Atkinson said. “Our job is to help Donovan and James connect and keep things simple early.”
The Cavaliers plan to move quickly rather than ease into the new alignment, confident that Harden’s experience and basketball IQ will accelerate the transition.
Source: Hoops Wire
