Kenny Atkinson is the favorite for NBA Coach of the Year, having transformed the Cleveland Cavaliers into an offensive powerhouse. With a 55-10 record, the Cavs lead the league in scoring and three-point shooting, thanks to Atkinson’s fast-paced system and improved player development.
However, former Cavs coach J.B. Bickerstaff is also in contention after leading a remarkable turnaround in Detroit. The Pistons, who won just 14 games last season, are now firmly in the playoff race under his leadership.
Atkinson’s Impact on the Cavs
Despite inheriting a good team, Atkinson has addressed key weaknesses, including:
Bench depth – Role players like Ty Jerome, Dean Wade, and Max Strus have stepped up.
Offensive efficiency – The Cavs jumped from 24th to 10th in pace and now boast the second-best offensive rating in NBA history.
Mental toughness – This season, the Cavs consistently close out tight games and mount comebacks.
Mobley’s Breakout & Atkinson’s Coaching Edge
Atkinson has also unlocked Evan Mobley’s offensive potential, doubling his three-point attempts and making him a versatile weapon while remaining a top Defensive Player of the Year candidate.
While Bickerstaff’s success in Detroit is impressive, Atkinson has taken virtually the same Cavs roster from last year and turned it into a historically great team. That elite-level coaching should earn him NBA Coach of the Year honors.
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