NBA3 hours ago2 minute read

Kenny Atkinson Shares Disappointment Over Missing LeBron James

Cavs coach Kenny Atkinson felt depressed when LeBron James picked Philadelphia, but he praised Cleveland for pivoting to acquire Peyton Watson.

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A tough start in Cleveland

When the Cleveland Cavaliers opened their season on Thursday against the Philadelphia 76ers, coach Kenny Atkinson faced a reality he wished was different. LeBron James was on the opposite side of the court in a Sixers uniform, rather than starting a third run with Cleveland.

Atkinson admitted before the game that missing out on James left him feeling down. He said when a team expects a big move to happen and it fails, the first day or two leaves you feeling depressed.

Inside the free agency chase

James told the Los Angeles Lakers he would enter free agency for a record setting 24th NBA season. Cleveland was one of five finalists alongside Minnesota, Miami, Golden State, and Philadelphia.

Cleveland was the only city James visited. He met with Koby Altman, Grant Gilbert, and general manager Brandon Weems, who has been a friend of James since childhood.

Despite that visit, James signed a two year, $8 million contract with Philadelphia that includes a player option for next season. He later posted on X that Northeast Ohio would always be home.

Shifting focus to Peyton Watson

After losing out on James, the Cavaliers moved quickly to pivot. Cleveland put together a five team trade to acquire 24 year old forward Peyton Watson from the Denver Nuggets in a sign and trade deal.

To complete the deal, Cleveland gave up Max Strus, Dennis Schroder, Tre Mann, and an unprotected 2031 first round pick. Watson then signed a four year, $88 contract with the team.

Atkinson credited team owner Dan Gilbert and the front office for their aggressive approach. He liked how fast the organization switched gears after taking a tough blow at the start.

What it means for the next game

Milwaukee Bucks at Philadelphia 76ers (NBA, Sat, 24 Oct): Philadelphia 76ers win 59%, Milwaukee Bucks win 41%; projected score Philadelphia 76ers 115, Milwaukee Bucks 111. Our safest pick: 76ers +4.5.

Brooklyn Nets at Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA, Sat, 24 Oct): Cleveland Cavaliers win 80%, Brooklyn Nets win 20%; projected score Cleveland Cavaliers 118, Brooklyn Nets 108. Our safest pick: Cavaliers to win.