As the Cleveland Cavaliers embarked on the new NBA season, all eyes were set on Evan Mobley, the talented young forward who has quickly emerged as a cornerstone of the franchise. The Cavaliers, under the new leadership of head coach Kenny Atkinson, have placed significant emphasis on developing Mobley’s game, and the results so far have been promising.
A Transformative Offseason
Mobley's offseason was nothing short of transformative. Under the guidance of his skills trainer, Olin Simplis, Mobley focused heavily on ballhandling and creation, evolving his drives into potent post plays. Simplis noted, "This year, we spent a lot more time ballhandling and creating." This dedication to honing his craft has translated into a remarkable on-court performance, a testament to Mobley’s work ethic and potential.
Standing at 215 pounds, Mobley has proven himself to be a formidable presence on the court, often described as being just as strong as any of his peers. "I feel like I'm just as strong as anyone out here," Mobley asserted, indicative of his growing confidence and physical readiness to take on the league's challenges.
Early Season Success
Mobley's impact was immediately noticeable in the Cavaliers' opening game, where he scored an impressive 25 points in just 27 minutes on an efficient 9-for-14 shooting performance. This ability to deliver under pressure underscores his readiness to embrace a more aggressive role within the team—a development that hasn't gone unnoticed by his teammates. "The way he's playing is so much more aggressive," observed Dean Wade, capturing the collective sentiment around Mobley's evolution.
Atkinson's coaching system has certainly benefited Mobley, allowing him to lead the Cavaliers in touches, as reported by NBA.com’s tracking data. This increased involvement has seen Mobley driving almost twice as frequently as last season and taking the initiative in pushing the ball in transition, even when the possession begins with defensive rebounds or following opponent scores.
A New Era Under Kenny Atkinson
The transition to Atkinson's coaching regime has introduced a new dynamic to the Cavaliers, one that places Mobley at the crux of the offensive strategy. "How are we going to use Evan? How are we going to grow his game?" was a pivotal question Atkinson posed during his interview process. The answer seems to lie in leveraging Mobley's versatility and basketball IQ, transforming him into a central figure not defined by traditional positions. "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," acknowledged veteran Tristan Thompson, highlighting the limitless potential of the young forward.
Mobley's increased role and responsibility are also a nod to Atkinson's trust in his ability. This confidence is mirrored in the way Mobley himself views the current system. "Everyone's buying into the system with the new offense," Mobley explained. "Getting me the ball, getting me the ball where I need it." His teammates' and coach's assurance not only elevates Mobley’s confidence but also reinforces the collective belief in the Cavaliers’ long-term vision.
The Season's Storyline Unfolds
The Cavaliers started the season strong with a 4-0 record, setting the tone for what promised to be an exciting campaign. Their efforts paid dividends, culminating in a solid finish with a 48-34 record, securing the No. 16 offense ranking in the NBA for the 2023-24 season. Mobley’s development and the team’s collective growth were instrumental in the Cavaliers' resilience, as they battled fiercely through the playoffs.
In a nail-biting first-round series, the Cavaliers clinched victory over the Orlando Magic in seven games, before facing formidable opposition in the semifinals. Despite their valiant effort, they fell short against the eventual champions, the Boston Celtics. Nevertheless, the journey signaled a defining chapter in the Cavaliers' resurgence, marking the beginning of what could be a promising era spearheaded by Mobley’s emergence.
The Cavaliers' journey is a testament to their dedication and strategic vision, anchored by Mobley’s evolution into a central figure on the roster. As the season unfolds, the team will undoubtedly continue to explore new dimensions of Mobley's burgeoning talent, embodying the spirit of growth and perseverance that defines this sporting chapter. After all, as Donovan Mitchell aptly put it, "Can we do that when we're exhausted?" These Cavaliers are learning exactly how to rise to that challenge.