Evan Mobley Leads Cavaliers with Coach Atkinson's Vision
As the Cleveland Cavaliers embarked on their latest NBA season, all eyes were focused on Evan Mobley. Transitioning into a focal point under the new head coach, Kenny Atkinson, Mobley has become the embodiment of the team's renewed strategies. Ever since Atkinson's arrival in June, he has strategized around utilizing Mobley's unique talents. "How are we going to use Evan? How are we going to grow his game?" Atkinson pondered during his interview process, setting the tone for a season of transformation.
Rapidly evolving into the centrepiece of Atkinson's system, Mobley began the season with an impressive show of offensive prowess. In the Cavaliers' debut game, Mobley shone brightly, netting 25 points in just 27 minutes with a remarkable 9-for-14 shooting performance. This change isn't just statistical; it’s qualitative, with Mobley taking on a more aggressive stance on the court. "The way he's playing is so much more aggressive," noted teammate Dean Wade, emphasizing the striking evolution in Mobley's game.
Driving this change is not only Atkinson's vision but also the intensive offseason work Mobley invested in with skills trainer Olin Simplis. Simplis shed light on their approach: "This year, we spent a lot more time ballhandling and creating...turning his drive into a post." The emphasis on development has not gone unnoticed, with Mobley frequently driving to the basket nearly twice as often as in the previous season, and bringing in the ball single-handedly even after opponent scores.
Through NBA.com's tracking data, it's evident that Mobley leads the Cavaliers in touches, showcasing his growing command on the floor. Embracing his versatility, Mobley often takes on the role of a playmaker, pushing the ball in transition following defensive rebounds, indicating a burgeoning confidence and adaptability. As Tristan Thompson bluntly puts it, "At this point, there's no real positions. He's just a gifted f---ing basketball player, and I'm glad he's on our team."
The burgeoning star, now listed at 215 pounds, expresses a firm belief in his abilities on the court. "I feel like I'm just as strong as anyone out here," Mobley asserts, underscoring not just his physical development, but his mental fortitude in this pivotal role. The team's unanimous buy-in reflects a cohesive unit under Atkinson's system: "Everyone's buying into the system with the new offense, and getting me the ball, getting me the ball where I need it," Mobley explains.
This strategic recalibration is yielding positive returns for the Cavaliers. The team stormed through the opening stretch of the season with a 4-0 record, a promising start that underlines their potential. As the season unfolded, Cleveland wrapped up its campaign with a 48-34 record, securing the No. 16 offense ranking in the league. Their playoff journey saw them triumph in a grueling seven-game series against the Orlando Magic, before ultimately falling in the semifinals to the eventual champions, the Boston Celtics.
Despite the playoff exit, the Cavaliers' transformation under Atkinson and Mobley's ascent are harbingers of a bright future. Mobley's growth, both as an aggressive on-ball player and a versatile team leader, marks a significant chapter in Cleveland's basketball narrative. As Donovan Mitchell quipped in the midst of a rigorous training session, "Can we do that when we're exhausted?" capturing the team's relentless pursuit of excellence.
The season has been a testament to Mobley's hard work and talent, showcasing how Atkinson's strategic plans have taken root. With further development, the potential for greatness remains potent, as Cleveland continues to harness the talent of its burgeoning star.