The Cleveland Cavaliers’ undefeated start to the season has garnered plenty of praise, but NBA Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal remains skeptical about the role of head coach Kenny Atkinson in the team’s success. During the postgame edition of *Inside the NBA* on Tuesday, when the conversation shifted to the then 12-0 Cavaliers, Shaq took a jab at Atkinson’s impact on the team’s hot streak.
“Donnovan Mitchell is playing,” O’Neal said dismissively when asked about Atkinson’s role, implying that the coach’s influence may be overstated. Charles Barkley, Shaq’s co-host, playfully fired back, calling Shaq a “dummy” for his dismissive view on coaching, adding that Atkinson has done a “fabulous job” leading the Cavaliers.
The Cavaliers continued their winning streak with a victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday, extending their record to 13-0. Given that this year’s roster closely resembles last season’s squad, which finished as the No. 4 seed in the Eastern Conference and was eliminated in the second round, questioning Atkinson’s influence on the team’s progress does seem peculiar. Under his leadership, Cleveland has become one of the most offensively efficient teams in the league, boasting a 120.9 offensive rating compared to last season’s 114.7. Additionally, they have maintained a top 10 defensive rating, with a mark of 109.9, and have significantly increased their pace of play, moving from 24th in the league last year to the top 10 this season.
Atkinson’s strategic adjustments are apparent in these improvements, and while Mitchell’s stellar performance is a key factor in the team’s success, it’s clear that Atkinson’s coaching has also played a pivotal role in shaping the Cavaliers’ dynamic offense and maintaining their defensive strength.
