NBA Notes: Cavs, Kenny Atkinson, Spurs, Timberwolves, Anthony Edwards

Cavaliers

The Cavaliers heard the noise. They are starting to answer it.

After questions about their mental toughness earlier in the postseason, Cleveland has flipped the script. The Cavs climbed out of an 0-2 hole, now lead 3-2, and pulled off a stunning comeback in Game 5.

“We just made big plays,” coach Kenny Atkinson told reporters. “That stretch says a lot about our progress, mental performance progress, mental toughness progress. Kept at it. These guys, they never get down.”

That message is landing now.

Cleveland erased a nine-point deficit in the final minutes to steal Game 5. The belief inside the locker room is matching what is showing up on the court.

Spurs

The Spurs are one win from the conference finals, and their formula has been clear.

San Antonio has leaned into physical defense and relentless pressure, particularly against Minnesota star Anthony Edwards. Traps, bodies, constant attention. It has disrupted the Timberwolves’ rhythm throughout the series.

The result speaks for itself. A 3-2 series lead and a chance to close it out.

Now comes the next challenge. Staying composed in a hostile environment with everything on the line. The Wolves will bring desperation. The Spurs need discipline.

Timberwolves

The Timberwolves know what the problem is. Fixing it has been another matter, writes Chris Hine of the Minneapolis Star Tribune.

Execution has been inconsistent, especially in key moments. That includes drifting away from the game plan on both ends, something Anthony Edwards has acknowledged more than once.

“Just game plan mistakes that we keep making,” Edwards said. “And it’s too late in the series to make these mistakes.”

Minnesota has shown flashes. It has not sustained them. That is how a series slips.