Key Highlights
- Kenny Atkinson credits James Harden’s addition for renewed confidence in the Cavaliers.
- The Cavs have won 6-1 since acquiring Harden in a trade deadline deal.
- Harden has contributed offensively, averaging 18.9 points and 8.0 assists per game.
- Cleveland’s defensive intensity improved significantly, holding New York to only 11 points in Q3.
The Trade That Turned the Tide: Harden’s Arrival
Kenny Atkinson is a coaching veteran with a keen eye for player impact. His assessment that James Harden’s arrival has given the Cleveland Cavaliers “renewed confidence” is not just a platitude but a tangible reality. Since acquiring Harden in a blockbuster deal ahead of the trade deadline, the Cavs have shown remarkable improvement.
Statistics and Performance
The numbers don’t lie. In his seven games with the team, Harden has been productive, averaging 18.9 points and 8.0 assists per game on 49% shooting from beyond the arc. Despite not having much time to acclimate, his presence has made a significant difference.
But it’s not just about points and assists; Harden’s impact extends to the team culture. “We’re pretty good,” Donovan Mitchell said with confidence. “There’s some nights we’re just playing off of each other.” This camaraderie is evident in their recent performances, where they’ve won 8 out of 9 games.
Defensive Boost
The turnaround isn’t just about offense; Cleveland has also seen a dramatic improvement defensively. In the third quarter against New York, they held the Knicks to only 11 points, their lowest-scoring quarter since November 2022. “We got what, 25 games? I think we can get there,” Harden said, emphasizing that defensive prowess is key for long-term success.
Coach Atkinson agrees. “That spirit, that confidence for some strange reason, it makes you play harder, compete harder.” The renewed belief in their abilities has translated into a more focused and determined team on both ends of the court.
Acknowledging Growth
The recent past hasn’t been kind to Cleveland. Two months ago, they blew a 17-point lead against New York, but Mitchell sees progress. “That’s why all year I’ve been talking about a lot of the struggles we went through.” Now, with Harden’s addition and their current form, the Cavs are more than just competitive; they’re formidable.
Atkinson believes they can reach new heights. “If we can find a way to really hone in defensively and really get stops and limit teams to one shot, we’re going to be very, very tough.” The writing is on the wall for the Cavs as they aim to solidify their playoff position.
So, you might think this is new, but it’s not. It’s a familiar tale of hard work, adaptation, and belief. Cleveland has turned things around, and with Harden’s help, the future looks brighter than ever.