Cavs’ Altman, Atkinson talk confidently as camp looms: ‘Don’t take this group for granted’

It’s almost that time again. Yes, the Cavaliers are almost back. And they will enter training camp with expectations sky high.

That’s not just outside noise, either.

President of basketball operations Koby Altman and coach Kenny Atkinson made it clear during a press conference on Tuesday that the Cavs are aiming for more than regular-season success. They believe they can get it, too. And soon.

“Don’t take this group for granted,” Altman told reporters. “We expect to have multiple bites at the apple this season and beyond.”

That comes after a 64-18 finish last year, before the Cavs bowed out in the second round against the eventual East champion Pacers. Plenty around the league still project Cleveland to break through, but yeah, that’s a long way off.

For now, it seems, the Cavs are focused on building good habits early, sticking with what worked, and finding ways to win big when it means the most. 

‘We Have What We Need’

Atkinson is entering his second camp as Cavaliers coach and didn’t bother with modesty.

“I like our toughness. I like our makeup. I love our identity. I love our leadership,” he said. “We have what we need to compete for a championship.”

Atkinson didn’t get into specifics about the starting five, though he did single out De’Andre Hunter as a player who had an “incredible” summer. Altman added that Hunter now has “a real foundation” after arriving in a February trade with the Hawks.

Along with that, Atkinson also spoke extensively about how to use center Jarrett Allen more effectively when opponents go small.

“He’s a vital piece,” Atkinson said, adding that there will be shifts to put Allen in better spots.

Moves Get High Marks

Atkinson praised the signing and return of Larry Nance Jr., calling the move “a coup” because of his veteran presence and 3-point improvement. He also raved about newcomer Lonzo Ball’s basketball IQ and emphasized the need to have him healthy for the postseason.

On Sam Merrill’s re-signing, Altman said movement shooting and competitiveness made him a “mainstay,” even if it meant saying goodbye to Ty Jerome, who bolted for the Grizzlies in free agency.

Nevertheless, the Cavs clearly believe they are more than covered for that loss.

Eyes on Mitchell and Mobley

As for injuries, Altman revealed that Darius Garland is back on the court doing basketball activities, though he’ll be brought along slowly.

Garland spent much of the offseason in the weight room when he couldn’t be on his feet, something the team was proud of.

The Cavs will also be without starting wing Max Strus to begin the season. That means All-NBA guard Donovan Mitchell and reigning Defensive Player of the Year Evan Mobley will be asked to carry even more until the roster is whole again.