TITLE: Altman and Atkinson Set Championship Bar as Cavaliers Head to Training Camp
SLUG: cavaliers-altman-atkinson-set-championship-bar-ahead-of-camp
CONTENT:
The Cleveland Cavaliers will open training camp next week with expectations that extend well beyond the regular season, according to president of basketball operations Koby Altman and head coach Kenny Atkinson.
Speaking at a news conference on Tuesday, Altman said the organization believes the current roster can contend now and in the years to come. “Don’t take this group for granted,” he told reporters. “We expect to have multiple bites at the apple this season and beyond.”
High Hopes After 64-Win Season
Cleveland finished 64-18 last year before falling to the eventual Eastern Conference champion Indiana Pacers in the second round. Despite the postseason exit, both executives insist the club’s core is positioned to make a deeper run.
Atkinson: “We Have What We Need”
Entering his second training camp with the Cavaliers, Atkinson praised the roster’s mentality. “I like our toughness. I like our makeup. I love our identity. I love our leadership,” he said. “We have what we need to compete for a championship.”
The coach declined to name a projected starting lineup but highlighted DeAndre Hunter, acquired from Atlanta at last season’s trade deadline, for having “an incredible summer.” Altman added that Hunter now has “a real foundation” within the system.
Adjustments for Jarrett Allen
Atkinson noted that strategic tweaks are planned to maximize center Jarrett Allen when opponents deploy smaller lineups. “He’s a vital piece,” the coach said, adding that the staff will “put Allen in better spots.”
Off-Season Moves Earn Praise
Atkinson called the signing of Larry Nance Jr. “a coup,” citing the veteran forward’s leadership and improved three-point shooting. He also lauded newcomer Lonzo Ball for his basketball IQ, emphasizing the importance of keeping the guard healthy for the playoffs.
Altman pointed to Sam Merrill’s movement shooting and competitiveness as reasons for re-signing the guard, a decision that coincided with Ty Jerome’s departure to Memphis in free agency.
Injury Updates
Darius Garland has resumed on-court activities after spending much of the offseason in the weight room, though the team plans to bring the All-Star guard along slowly. Starting wing Max Strus will miss the beginning of the season, placing additional responsibility on Donovan Mitchell and reigning Defensive Player of the Year Evan Mobley to carry the load until the lineup is at full strength.
Atkinson said he focused this summer on strengthening his relationship with Mitchell. “Statistically he had an incredible year for us, but I know there’s more in there. I’m excited to see his growth this year,” the coach remarked.
Training camp opens next week, with the Cavaliers looking to turn strong words into a deeper postseason run.
Source: Hoops Wire
