Kenny Atkinson has plenty of candidates for the Cavaliers’ rotation. Deciding how they fit together is the part he wants to see in training camp.
The coach said Friday that Cleveland’s starting lineup isn’t set, even with Peyton Watson arriving as a potential starter alongside James Harden, Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. Atkinson also sees more players deserving minutes than he can use on a regular basis.
“Probably list 13 right now that could be in that top 10,” he said, per Ethan Sands of Cleveland.com.
A few more Cavs notes from Atkinson’s preseason comments:
- Watson’s early impression: Atkinson likes what he has seen defensively from the 24-year-old wing. He also pointed to Watson’s 41% shooting from three last season, while acknowledging that it’s a one-year sample. Watson looks like a strong candidate to start, but Atkinson wants to see the group on the floor before settling on five names.
- Young players in the mix: Atkinson mentioned Tyrese Proctor and Nae’Qwan Tomlin while discussing Cleveland’s depth. Proctor played more than 500 minutes last season, and Tomlin had a stretch of what Atkinson described as starter-type production. Proctor has also added 15 to 20 pounds since last season, according to Mack Perry of the It’s Cavalier podcast.
- Hezonja’s return: Atkinson believes Mario Hezonja’s years in Europe have brought him back to the NBA at the right point in his career. “I think he’s going to surprise some people,” Atkinson said, via Eurohoops. Hezonja is another option as the Cavs sort through their rotation.
- In case you missed it: President of basketball operations Koby Altman said the Cavs couldn’t let LeBron James’ decision to sign with the 76ers define their offseason. He called Cleveland’s summer a success despite missing out on James.
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