As the 2023-24 NBA season unfolded, all eyes were on the Cleveland Cavaliers' Evan Mobley, whose transformation was impossible to ignore. Under the guidance of new head coach Kenny Atkinson, Mobley's role evolved, bringing palpable energy and dynamism to the court that resonated with fans and analysts alike.
A New Era Under Atkinson
The Cavaliers' focus on Mobley marked a shift in the team's strategic approach, with Atkinson integrating him into the core of his coaching philosophy. This was evident from the outset, with Atkinson candidly questioning during his interview process, "How are we going to use Evan? How are we going to grow his game?" His questions signaled an impending evolution in Mobley's style of play, one that capitalized on his unique set of skills.
Atkinson's belief in Mobley's potential quickly translated into performance. In the season opener, Mobley displayed an offensive prowess that had matured significantly over the offseason. Scoring 25 points in just 27 minutes with an impressive shooting display of 9-for-14, Mobley sent a clear message—he was ready to take a leading role.
A New Offensive Force
Dean Wade, Mobley's teammate, noticed the change in demeanor, summarizing the development succinctly by stating, "The way he's playing is so much more aggressive." This aggression became one of the hallmarks of Mobley's new game style, where he effectively led the Cavaliers in touches, according to NBA.com tracking data.
The commitment to improvement did not stop there. Over the offseason, Mobley had worked tirelessly with skills trainer Olin Simplis, honing his ball handling and creativity. As Simplis put it, "This year, we spent a lot more time ballhandling and creating...turning his drive into a post." As a result, Mobley not only increased his drives to nearly double from the previous season but also took on the role of a playmaker, initiating plays right after defensive rebounds or even after an opponent's scores.
Breaking Traditional Positions
Mobley's evolving skill set effectively disrupted traditional positional play. Often seen pushing the ball in transition and leading the charge down the court, Mobley became an all-around force. As teammate Tristan Thompson succinctly noted, "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."
These enhancements in Mobley's game were not limited by physical stature. Standing at 215 pounds, he exhibited confidence in his physicality, declaring, "I feel like I'm just as strong as anyone out here." This newfound confidence only fueled his performance, contributing to the Cavaliers starting the season with a 4-0 record, setting a tone for what was to come.
Playoff Push and Challenges
The Cavs finished the season with a respectable 48-34 record, securing the No. 16 offense in the NBA. Mobley's newfound prominence played a crucial role in their postseason journey, where they triumphed in a tightly contested seven-game series against the Orlando Magic in the first round.
Yet, amidst these successes, the Cavaliers faced formidable opposition in the semifinals, where the eventual-champion Celtics halted their progress. Despite the setback, the season stood as a testament to Mobley's growth and the potential laid forth under Atkinson's tutelage.
Throughout the season, Mobley and his Cavaliers teammates embraced their roles within Atkinson's system, crafting a coherent offense and an adaptable team philosophy. As Mobley himself reflected, "Everyone's buying into the system with the new offense and getting me the ball, getting me the ball where I need it." This cohesion not only benefited Mobley personally but also fortified the Cavaliers as a respected contender in the league.
In Mobley, the Cavaliers have found a cornerstone, a player whose trajectory promises to enthrall and inspire in equal measure. For fans eagerly watching the evolution of one of the NBA's brightest young stars, the Cleveland Cavaliers' future looks more promising than ever.