Jun 24, 2024 - Sports

Cavs hire former Nets head coach Kenny Atkinson

Sam Allard

Atkinson on the sidelines. Photo: Mike Stobe/Getty Images

The Cleveland Cavaliers have chosen a new head coach: Kenny Atkinson, the Golden State Warriors' assistant coach and former Nets' head coach.

Why it matters: After parting ways with J.B. Bickerstaff following the team's playoff exit last month, the Cavs have locked down a veteran offensive schemer days before the 2024 NBA Draft.

What we're watching: The team's top priority will now be re-signing star guard Donovan Mitchell and retooling the roster around him via the draft, trades and free agency.

According to The Athletic, the Cavs are preparing a four-year $209 million contract offer for Mitchell.

Between the lines: While leading the Brooklyn Nets from 2016-2020, Atkinson coached current Cavaliers Jarrett Allen and Caris LeVert.

Catch up quick: The Cavs had assembled a list of coaching candidates that also included New Orleans assistant James Borrego, Minnesota assistant Micah Nori, Miami assistant Chris Quinn and New York assistant Johnnie Bryant.

According to NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski and others, the finalists were Atkinson and Borrego.

What's next: The NBA Draft is Wednesday and Thursday. The Cavs select 20th overall.

LeBron James's son Bronny, an Akron native who turned heads with his athleticism at the NBA Draft combine last month, is currently projected to go in the second round.

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Cavs hire former Nets head coach Kenny Atkinson

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