LeBron JamesThe decision to sign with Philadelphia got in the way Coby Altman from landing his top target in the offseason, but CavaliersThe president of basketball operations believes he still has a team that can compete for a title, writes Joe Reedy of the Associated Press. Speaking at a press conference Friday, Altman said the organization had a productive summer both in terms of adding talent and stabilizing payroll.
“You look at the roster and zoom out and say, ‘Okay, was this offseason successful? Could we become better? Have we looked into the future? Have we got more financial flexibility, more sustainability with the list?’ All of those things lead me to say that it was a really good offseason, despite that one decision.” he said.
Altman’s main addition was Peyton Watsonwhich was purchased in a a five-team trade after a long contract standoff with Denver. Security veteran James Hardenwho put extension talks on hold while waiting for the team to complete its other business, got a a three-year, $97 million deal earlier this month.
“I’m not underestimating the enormity and magnitude of (James’) decision,” Altman added. “I just think we’re built as an organization so that we have a great foundation and a great ecosystem in terms of talent, coaching staff, our performance staff, and we’re built to be sustainable here, regardless of the outcome.”
There’s more from Cleveland:
- Watson has already made a strong impression on the coach Kenny Atkinsonadds Reedy. The 24-year-old wing appears to be in a good position to earn a starting spot alongside Harden, Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. “What I see in the gym is defense first,” Atkinson said. “And then he shot 41% from three last year. That’s a one-year sample, but there’s a lot of room for growth in his offensive game, especially the way we play.”
- Atkinson stressed that he doesn’t think his starting five is ready to go in training camp, but his main concern is deciding who fills out the rotation. Ethan Sands of Cleveland.com relay in history for subscribers only. Atkinson listed several players who could be in the mix, adding that he won’t have a clear idea of who should play regularly until he sees them in action. “You can probably list 13 who could be in the top 10 right now,” he said. “As far as our depth, I couldn’t be more pleased. We see the work every day of our work in the offseason, what we do with our young guys and how we bring them with us, and they are experienced now. Tyrese Proctor played 500-plus minutes last year, and Ne’Quan (Tomlin)there is a stretch where he played early minutes and produced as a starter. We have a lot of parts that we can go to. I just have to figure out how it all fits together.”
- Atkinson said Proctor has gained 15 to 20 pounds since the end of last season, per Mac Perry of the It’s Cavalier podcast (Link to Twitter).
- Atkinson is also counting on input from the outside Mario Hezonhawho is returning to the NBA after five years in Europe, reports Jonny Askovnis of Eurohoops. “I like that we went the other way to get a player with the experience and authority that he has.” Atkinson said. “And I think to get a player at the right time in his career. Sometimes it’s obviously about an extremely talented player, but if you get that person in his career at the right time.”
