How Donovan Mitchell has led by example for undefeated Cleveland Cavaliers
It’s a brand new offense the Cleveland Cavaliers are running, and so far head coach Kenny Atkinson has gotten the most of everyone on his roster.
The Cavaliers have sprinted to a perfect 6-0 start this season despite a long-term injury to Max Strus ahead of opening night. Atkinson has emphasized a balanced, fast-paced offense and utilized his bench squad to complement the system. Through the first six games, the Cavs scored the second-most points per game at 124.7, second only to the Boston Celtics. The Cavaliers are swinging the ball around and making the extra pass, leading to a league-leading 40.8 three-point percentage in that same time.
As expected, Donovan Mitchell has led the way for the Cavaliers, averaging 23.8 points, five assists and two steals per night. Since arriving in 2022, Cleveland has given Mitchell the keys to the franchise’s future, and he has constantly shown his commitment to the city and his teammates.
After two consecutive playoff appearances, the Cavaliers are expected to take another step forward with a cohesion nucleus and determined leading star. Over those last two years, though, Cleveland’s slow and predictable offense kept them behind their rivals. With a new coaching staff in place, the Cavs’ offense is unrecognizable from a year prior, boasting the league’s second-best offensive rating (122.4) with a 16.3 net rating.
The Cavaliers are shooting from deep and integrating their frontcourt dynamos effortlessly. For all of this to work, everybody needs to buy in. Donovan Mitchell has exemplified this team-first attitude, leading by example for his squad.
