Cavs open camp focused on speed; Bryant impresses, Garland limited
cavs-open-camp-focused-on-speed-bryant-impresses-garland-limited
The Cleveland Cavaliers began training camp Tuesday at IMG Academy in Florida with one clear directive from new head coach Kenny Atkinson: increase the pace.
“We can be better,” Atkinson told reporters after a shortened first practice. “Efficiency-wise we were elite, no doubt. But can we get to that scoring zone quicker?”
Speed emphasized on both ends
Cleveland ranked 10th in the NBA in pace during last season’s 64-win campaign, finishing sixth among playoff teams. To accelerate further, coaches ran drills that rewarded players for advancing the ball past half court within a set time, aiming to start actions earlier without forcing quick shots. Guards were instructed to “get it and go,” and full-court defensive pressure was highlighted, mirroring the style that eliminated the Cavs in the second round against Indiana.
Thomas Bryant makes an early impact
Veteran center Thomas Bryant, signed late in free agency after the club debated between him and Larry Nance Jr., drew praise for his energy. “Every second he stepped on the floor it was go a thousand percent,” Atkinson said. The staff expects Bryant to challenge Evan Mobley, Jarrett Allen and Nance in practice while offering an inside-out option the frontcourt lacked last season, when Tristan Thompson primarily served as a locker-room presence.
Garland still on a restricted workload
All-Star guard Darius Garland, who underwent toe surgery in June, participated only in a 45-minute individual session and avoided contact. Atkinson noted Garland “looked good” in tight spaces but remains on a cautious timeline. The 24-year-old is projected to miss 10–15 games at the start of the season while conditioning progresses.
During Garland’s absence, Sam Merrill is expected to enter the starting lineup and Donovan Mitchell will slide to point guard duties.
Source: Hoops Wire
