As the Cleveland Cavaliers embarked on the new NBA season, the spotlight was firmly placed on Evan Mobley, the young prodigy whose development is central to the team's aspirations. Under the guidance of newly appointed head coach Kenny Atkinson, who joined the team in June, Mobley has emerged as a focal point in both strategy and execution.
During Atkinson's interview process, the pivotal question was, "How are we going to use Evan? How are we going to grow his game?" This reflected the team's commitment to maximizing the potential of their star forward. This commitment is paying dividends, as Mobley has shown remarkable growth in his offensive game within Atkinson's system.
Mobley's performance in the opening game of the season was a testament to his newfound prowess. Scoring 25 points in just 27 minutes, he exhibited a shooting accuracy of 9-for-14. His aggressive start was noted by teammate Dean Wade, who remarked, "The way he's playing is so much more aggressive." This aggression has been a cornerstone of the Cavaliers' early success, as they raced to a 4-0 start.
Mobley's evolution is evident beyond his scoring. According to NBA.com's tracking data, he leads the Cavaliers in touches, a testament to his increased involvement in the team's offense. This season, he's driving to the basket almost twice as frequently as the previous year and often pushes the ball in transition after securing defensive rebounds. His dynamism is further highlighted by his ability to bring the ball up the court, even after an opponent scores, showcasing his versatility.
Offseason work with his skills trainer, Olin Simplis, focused heavily on ballhandling and creative plays. "This year, we spent a lot more time ballhandling and creating...turning his drive into a post," Simplis revealed, pointing to the comprehensive development in Mobley's game. Listed at 215 pounds, Mobley exudes confidence in his physical capabilities, stating, "I feel like I'm just as strong as anyone out here."
The Cavaliers finished the 2023-24 season with a 48-34 record, claiming the No. 16 offense in the league. Their playoff journey saw them conquer the Orlando Magic in a gripping seven-game first-round series. However, their run was halted in the semifinals by the eventual-champion Celtics, marking a bittersweet end to a season filled with progress.
Throughout the season, Mobley has consistently emphasized the importance of his role within the team structure. "Everyone's buying into the system with the new offense and getting me the ball, getting me the ball where I need it," he commented, acknowledging the collective effort behind his individual success.
Veteran presence Tristan Thompson, impressed by Mobley's adaptability, remarked, "At this point, there's no real positions. He's just a gifted f---ing basketball player, and I'm glad he's on our team." This sentiment resonates with the team's belief in positionless basketball, where skills and intelligence outweigh traditional roles.
Looking forward, the Cavaliers' capacity to maintain their high-level performance under fatigue remains a talking point within the team. "Can we do that when we're exhausted?" questioned Donovan Mitchell, highlighting the physical and mental demands of sustaining excellence throughout a grueling NBA season.
As Evan Mobley continues to refine his craft, the Cavaliers' future seems promising. The synergy between player development and strategic brilliance under Atkinson's tutelage could serve as a blueprint for success in the competitive landscape of the NBA.