The Cleveland Cavaliers are off to a record-breaking start this NBA season, clinching their ninth consecutive win in New Orleans against the Pelicans. With a 131-122 victory on Wednesday night, the Cavs are celebrating the franchise’s first 9-0 season start in 55 years, a feat that has fans and analysts buzzing. This article explores the factors behind Cleveland’s success, Coach Kenny Atkinson’s impact on the team, and what this historic milestone means for the Cavs as they look forward to the season ahead.
A Historic Start for the Cleveland Cavaliers
In a night filled with jubilation, the Cavaliers celebrated their record 9-0 start by drenching their new head coach, Kenny Atkinson, in the locker room after the game. Not only is this streak a first in Cleveland’s franchise history, but it also makes Atkinson the first coach to win his first nine games with a new team in NBA history.
“You have to celebrate moments like this,” Atkinson said, acknowledging the significance of the Cavaliers’ early-season success. “This season’s so long. It’s so hard to win in this league.” The Cavs’ 9-0 start is a rare achievement and a testament to the skill, depth, and unity of the team.
The Cavaliers next face the Golden State Warriors at home, a matchup that is expected to test Cleveland’s strength against one of the most consistent and competitive teams in the league. The Warriors set the record for the longest winning streak to start a season with 24 consecutive wins in 2015-16, a feat the Cavs will no doubt aim to chase as they continue to build on their current momentum.
Kenny Atkinson’s Coaching Philosophy: A Perfect Fit for Cleveland
Kenny Atkinson’s journey to Cleveland has been a unique one. After spending four years as head coach of the Brooklyn Nets, where he led them to a winning record only once, Atkinson served as an assistant with the LA Clippers and then with the Golden State Warriors, where he contributed to their recent success. Now, as head coach of the Cavaliers, Atkinson has found the ideal mix of player talent and camaraderie to help his coaching philosophy thrive.
Known for his focus on player development, discipline, and defensive tenacity, Atkinson’s approach has clearly resonated with the Cavs roster. “The vibes are great, energy’s great, he’s done a phenomenal job with us, and we’ve also bought in,” said All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell, who has been pivotal in the team’s winning streak.
Kenny Atkinson has just become the first coach in @NBA history to start 9-0 in his first year with a new team! #LetEmKnow pic.twitter.com/GX7RfnGyQW
— Cleveland Cavaliers (@cavs) November 7, 2024
Under Atkinson, the Cavs have developed a balanced and adaptable playing style, enabling them to win in different ways – from blowouts to come-from-behind victories. This tactical flexibility has allowed the team to excel and capitalize on every player’s strengths, contributing to Cleveland’s record-breaking start.
Donovan Mitchell: Leading by Example
One of the standout players during this 9-0 start is Donovan Mitchell, who scored a team-high 29 points in the recent game against the Pelicans. Mitchell’s leadership and consistency on the court have been instrumental in setting the tone for the Cavaliers. With his experience and skill, he’s become a focal point for Atkinson’s system.
“We’re playing good basketball,” Mitchell stated. “We’ve done it in so many different ways. My biggest thing is just being consistent.” Consistency is indeed a keyword for the Cavs, who are leading the NBA in field goal percentage at 52.6%. The team’s shooting accuracy – including 48.6% from beyond the arc in their last game – has allowed them to stay competitive even against top-tier opponents.
NBA STANDINGS UPDATE
▪️ CLE: 9-0, only unbeaten team left
▪️ PHX, GSW tie OKC for best record in WestDownload the NBA App for more ⤵️ https://t.co/wV1YsrFUXw pic.twitter.com/uO5s5HouHy
— NBA (@NBA) November 7, 2024
Mitchell’s influence goes beyond scoring; he’s been a vocal leader, emphasizing the importance of building winning habits and maintaining focus throughout the season. His commitment to consistency has encouraged his teammates to push harder, knowing that every game counts toward the Cavs’ aspirations in the Eastern Conference.
Depth and Team Chemistry: Key Ingredients in the Cavs’ Success
One of the defining aspects of this Cavaliers team is their depth. Against the Pelicans, Cleveland’s reserves scored a staggering 50 points, showcasing the strength of their bench. This depth allows Atkinson to maintain a high level of play throughout games, keeping starters fresh and enabling different players to contribute on any given night.
This balanced approach has also fostered a strong sense of camaraderie among the players, something Atkinson was quick to acknowledge. “What I think about is this team and the camaraderie they have, and the chemistry we have going and how connected they are,” Atkinson noted. The chemistry between the players – and with their new coach – has made it easier for everyone to buy into Atkinson’s system
This cohesion is evident in the team’s performance, with six players scoring in double figures against New Orleans. The Cavs are also only the second team in NBA history to start a season 9-0 while scoring 110 or more points in each game, joining the 1960-61 Warriors.
A Bright Future for the Cavaliers
As the Cavs set their sights on the Golden State Warriors, their early-season success has set high expectations for the rest of the year. Cleveland has shown that they can compete with top-tier teams, and with Atkinson at the helm, they have a clear path to continue building on their strengths.
The Cavaliers are not just winning; they’re winning in a way that demonstrates their potential for sustained success. With a roster that includes rising talents and seasoned veterans, Cleveland is poised to make a deep playoff run, a prospect that seemed improbable only a few years ago. The success of this 9-0 start has fans optimistic, with many hoping the Cavaliers can not only secure a playoff spot but also contend for the Eastern Conference title.
Atkinson’s Gratitude and Vision for the Team
For Kenny Atkinson, the success of this season is as much about team spirit as it is about wins and losses. He has emphasized the importance of celebrating achievements and building strong relationships within the team. “There’s a bond between the head coach and a team. You’ve got to celebrate those moments, and it’s pretty cool,” Atkinson remarked.
This bond is crucial in a long NBA season, and Atkinson’s focus on creating a positive team culture is paying dividends. By fostering a supportive environment and allowing players to contribute input on strategy, he has created a team that feels connected, both on and off the court.
What’s Next for the Cavs?
The Cavaliers’ next challenge comes on Friday when they face the Golden State Warriors, a team familiar with record-breaking starts. This matchup will be a significant test for Cleveland, as they face a team known for its playoff pedigree and winning culture. If the Cavs can extend their streak against a powerhouse like Golden State, it will solidify their status as a serious contender in the NBA.
With a 9-0 record and the best shooting percentage in the league, Cleveland is in a strong position to compete at a high level. Whether they can continue this streak remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: under Atkinson’s guidance, the Cavaliers have reignited hope and excitement for their fanbase.
The 2024-25 NBA season is still young, but the Cavaliers have already made history. For Cleveland fans, this may finally be the beginning of a new era of success, one built on teamwork, resilience, and the guidance of a coach who believes in celebrating every victory along the way.
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