The Cleveland Cavaliers have had an active offseason, stirring up quite the buzz. From a significant coaching change to intriguing draft picks, and some controversial potential signings, it's clear that this team is gearing up for an exciting season ahead.
First off, let’s talk about the coaching shake-up. Longtime head coach J.B. Bickerstaff was shown the door this spring. Bickerstaff led the Cavs to the second round of the Eastern Conference playoffs for the first time since 2018—LeBron James’ last season in Cleveland. Over four seasons and change, after stepping in as a late replacement for John Beilein in the 2019-20 season, Bickerstaff wrapped up his tenure with a 170-159 regular season record and a 6-11 playoff record. Despite making the postseason three times, including a play-in tournament berth in 2021-22, the Cavaliers decided it was time for a new direction. Now, Bickerstaff is coaching the Detroit Pistons, a team in a different phase of their rebuild.
In a bold move, Cleveland hired longtime Golden State Warriors assistant coach Kenny Atkinson as Bickerstaff’s replacement. Atkinson, known for his player development skills and strategic acumen, brings a fresh perspective to the Cavaliers. Joining him on the bench is former Los Angeles Lakers assistant coach Jordan Ott. This new coaching duo is expected to inject new life into the team’s strategy and execution.
But coaching wasn’t the only area where the Cavaliers made significant moves. The 2024 NBA Draft saw Cleveland's general manager Koby Altman select small forward Jaylon Tyson out of Cal with the No. 20 pick in the first round. Tyson, a versatile player known for his defensive prowess and athleticism, is anticipated to be a valuable addition to the roster. His potential to make an immediate impact is high, especially under Atkinson’s guidance.
The offseason highlight for the Cavaliers, however, was re-signing their superstar guard, Donovan Mitchell. Mitchell inked a three-year, $150.3 million contract extension, securing his place as the team’s cornerstone player. His scoring ability and leadership are crucial for the Cavaliers as they aim to climb higher in the competitive Eastern Conference.
While these moves have been significant, the Cavaliers have been relatively quiet on other transaction fronts. Swingman Isaac Okoro, the team's No. 5 overall pick in the 2020 draft, has hit unrestricted free agency and seems unlikely to return. This opens up questions about who will fill the gap left by Okoro’s potential departure.
Now, here’s where things get particularly interesting. According to Marc Stein in a recent Substack article, Cleveland is eyeing a potential sign-and-trade deal for Charlotte Hornets forward Miles Bridges. This interest comes despite Bridges’ tumultuous past, making it a controversial and potentially risky move.
Miles Bridges, selected by the Hornets with the No. 12 overall pick out of Michigan State in 2018, had a breakout season in 2021-22. Standing at 6-foot-7, Bridges played both power forward and small forward, averaging 20.2 points, 7 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.8 blocks per game. His impressive performance earned him seventh place in the Most Improved Player voting.
However, Bridges’ promising career took a dark turn. In July 2022, he was arrested for felony domestic violence after a violent assault on his then-girlfriend Mychelle Johnson, with two of their three young children present. Bridges eventually pleaded no contest to the felony domestic charge and was sentenced to three years of probation. He missed the entire 2022-23 season but was only officially suspended for 30 games between that year and the 2023-24 season. In October 2023, Bridges faced further allegations of attacking Johnson’s car with their children inside, violating his probation and protection order.
Given these disturbing events, the interest in Bridges is perplexing. On one hand, his on-court talents are undeniable—averaging 21 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists in the 2023-24 season. But on the other hand, his off-court behavior raises significant ethical and moral concerns. The question looms: does his basketball prowess overshadow his personal failings?
For a team like Cleveland, which has been working hard to build a positive and competitive culture, bringing in a player with Bridges’ baggage is a gamble. It’s a decision that could either pay off in spades on the court or backfire, causing unrest within the organization and among the fanbase.
In summary, the Cleveland Cavaliers are at a pivotal point this offseason. With a new coaching staff, promising draft picks, and the re-signing of Donovan Mitchell, the team is poised for a potentially successful season. However, their interest in Miles Bridges adds an element of unpredictability. Whether this move will enhance their roster or become a controversial misstep remains to be seen. One thing is certain—the Cavaliers are not shying away from making bold moves as they strive to return to the top of the Eastern Conference.
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