Kenny Atkinson, one of the Golden State Warriors’ top assistants under head coach Steve Kerr, is emerging as the leading candidate for the Cleveland Cavaliers’ vacant head-coaching position, according to a report by The Athletic’s Jason Lloyd. Kenny Atkinson’s name has been frequently mentioned in discussions about potential head coaches, reflecting his esteemed reputation across the league.
Kenny Atkinson’s Journey with the Warriors
Kenny Atkinson has spent the past three seasons with the Warriors, playing a pivotal role during the team’s 2022 NBA championship run. His experience and success with Golden State have made him a highly sought-after candidate.
Previously, Atkinson served as the head coach of the Brooklyn Nets from 2016 to 2020, where he was instrumental in revitalizing the franchise.
During the Warriors’ 2022 NBA Finals showdown against the Boston Celtics, Kenny Atkinson was initially set to become the head coach of the Charlotte Hornets. However, he ultimately decided to remain with the Warriors, where he continues to be a crucial part of the coaching staff.
Cleveland’s Coaching Search
The Cleveland Cavaliers, coming off a disappointing playoff exit after being eliminated in five games by the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference semifinals, are in search of a new head coach to lead their franchise to greater heights. Dan Gilbert, the owner of the Cavaliers, appears to be heavily involved in the coaching search process, more than initially anticipated.
Competition for Kenny Atkinson
Cleveland isn’t the only team interested in Kenny Atkinson. The Los Angeles Lakers are also rumored to have him among their pool of candidates for their head coaching vacancy. Additionally, Kenny Atkinson was considered for the Milwaukee Bucks’ head coach position after the team fired Adrian Griffin early in the 2023-24 NBA season. However, the Bucks ultimately chose to hire Doc Rivers as Griffin’s replacement.
A Respected Figure in the NBA
The consistent links between Atkinson and various head coaching opportunities underscore the respect he commands within the NBA community. His ability to develop players and lead successful teams has made him a top choice for franchises looking to make a significant impact.
As the Cavaliers continue their search, Atkinson’s track record with both the Warriors and the Nets makes him a strong candidate to lead Cleveland’s young and talented roster. Could he be the one to guide the Cavaliers back to championship contention? Only time will tell, but Atkinson’s potential move to Cleveland is certainly a development to watch closely in the coming weeks.
