Cleveland Cavaliers Secure Future with Donovan Mitchell Extension and Hire of Kenny Atkinson as Head Coach

The Cleveland Cavaliers have recently made two significant moves to secure their future. First, they hired Kenny Atkinson as their new head coach. Then, they agreed to terms with Donovan Mitchell on a new contract extension. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported that Mitchell signed a three-year, $150.5 million maximum contract extension.

Some may question why Mitchell did not sign a longer contract for more money, but it seems that this deal was structured to benefit both Mitchell and the Cavaliers. Wojnarowski explained that this extension provides the Cavs with stability by keeping their franchise player under contract beyond the next season. Additionally, this deal puts Mitchell on track to potentially earn a 5-year, $380 million-plus extension in 2027, as he nears the 10-year service criteria.

Since joining the Cavaliers in 2022, Mitchell has been playing some of the best basketball of his career. He has averaged 27.5 points, 4.6 rebounds, 5.2 assists, and 1.6 steals per game over the past two seasons. Mitchell has been instrumental in leading the Cavs to back-to-back postseason appearances, including their first playoff series win since LeBron James departed for the Los Angeles Lakers. This victory in the first round against the Orlando Magic marked the team’s first playoff series win without James since 1993.

The signing of Kenny Atkinson as head coach is another significant move by the Cavaliers towards solidifying their future. Atkinson has a proven track record of success as a head coach and brings a fresh perspective to the team’s coaching staff.

Overall, these moves by the Cleveland Cavaliers provide stability and potential for growth for both their franchise player and their coaching staff, securing their future in the NBA for years to come.