The Cleveland Cavaliers are rewriting history under new head coach Kenny Atkinson. With a remarkable 15-1 record, the Cavaliers stunned all as the NBA’s only undefeated team before their recent loss against the Boston Celtics. This success starkly contrasts Atkinson’s earlier coaching stint with the Brooklyn Nets, where his tenure was cut short during the Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving eras.
Atkinson was initially celebrated for building a promising team during his time with the Nets. But after Durant and Irving joined the roster, the situation changed. Despite Atkinson’s proven ability to develop talent, he was replaced by Steve Nash following disappointing results.
This controversial chapter in Atkinson’s career was recently brought into focus on Inside the NBA. Charles Barkley, who roasted the Warriors for their average start, called out Durant and Irving for their role in Atkinson’s departure.
"3 or 4 years ago, we were bragging about Kenny Atkinson doing a great job in Brooklyn… Then Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving came and kicked him off the ship… This guy knows how to coach."
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) November 19, 2024
— Charles Barkley 🗣️
(via @ESPNNBA)pic.twitter.com/12BFoVo4v9
“3 or 4 years ago, we were bragging about Kenny Atkinson doing a great job in Brooklyn… Then Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving came and kicked him off the ship. This guy knows how to coach,” Barkley said.
Kenny Atkinson Praises Al Horford’s Longevity After Cavs’ Loss to Celtics
The Cleveland Cavaliers’ undefeated streak ended with a narrow 117-120 loss to the Boston Celtics. Despite the setback, Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson commended Al Horford’s remarkable longevity in the league. When asked if Horford’s continued high-level play surprised him, Atkinson was quick to praise the veteran forward.
“No, it doesn’t surprise me because of his elite approach to every day. I was around it; I saw it every day. Probably the top of what I’ve seen in terms of taking care of his body, everything off the court, work ethic, hunger to improve. All the stuff that goes into longevity,” Atkinson said.
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Horford scored 20 points, seven rebounds, three blocks, and one assist against the Cavaliers. Despite the loss, the Cavaliers remain atop the Eastern Conference standings, just ahead of the 12-3 Celtics.
