Hoops Wire Live: Cavs Sporting New Philosophy, Fresh Attitude And Positive Early Signs

Ready or not, here come the Cavaliers. Actually, they’re already here — in the form of two preseason games.

And that form doesn’t look half-bad, either. I discuss the Cavs under new coach Kenny Atkinson, breaking down how things have gone so far, in the latest Hoops Wire Live from 330 to Go. Check it out on YouTube here or directly below.

As I wrote in the latest Dribbles, the Cavs were already pretty good, finishing fourth in the Eastern Conference last season for a second straight year. Everyone returns and looks refreshed. I can tell just by being in the locker room, there’s just a different vibe.

Now, that’s not to say things were bad last season under then-coach J.B. Bickerstaff. Despite what too many fans are saying, he did a pretty good job. The culture was strong (for evidence, just follow what Bickerstaff does with the Pistons this season).

But these Cavs seemed to have built on that. Atkinson seems to coach with a little more of an edge. He can be intense. He also suggested he learned a lot as an assistant with Steve Kerr and the Warriors.

Without question, some elements of that Golden State offense are being implemented by Atkinson in Cleveland. Yes, the Warriors are on their way down — but let’s not forget that Atkinson was an assistant for the 2022 championship team. (That makes Atkinson, Tristan Thompson and Sam Merrill as Cavs with rings.)

The rest of the guys want one, too. Are the Cavs closer now than they were last season? They’d like to think so. I wouldn’t argue. But you’ll have to check out the video for my thoughts. And how’s that for a teaser?

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