OKLAHOMA CITY – Early Frustration for Cavs Coach
Kenny Atkinson, the Cleveland Cavaliers coach, was visibly frustrated with referee Zach Zarba less than halfway through the first quarter. As the Oklahoma City Thunder surged to a 13-2 lead, Atkinson shouted, “We’re not gonna play like this, Zach,” over the noise of an excited Thunder crowd.
Common Complaints About Physical Play
Atkinson’s grievances echoed a frequent complaint in the NBA—opponents often cite the Thunder’s tendency to foul on nearly every play. The Cavaliers struggled in their recent match against Oklahoma City, committing 10 turnovers in just seven minutes of play—a game they ultimately lost 121-113, ending their impressive seven-game win streak.
Cavs Players Weigh In
Donovan Mitchell, an All-Star for the Cavs, noted the intense pressure from Thunder defender Luguentz Dort, stating, “I mean, they foul.” Despite scoring 20 points, Mitchell’s shooting was hindered, and he notably missed all six of his three-point attempts. His comments about the Thunder’s physicality came in response to questions, rather than as an initial critique.
Understanding Oklahoma City’s Success
While injuries sidelined several star players for the Thunder, including reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, their approach has proven effective. Oklahoma City’s system and depth allowed them to thrive, converting Cleveland’s 17 turnovers into 31 points. The Thunder hit 21 three-pointers in the game, emphasizing their capability even without star power.
The Shift in NBA Team Dynamics
This discussion transcends individual player performance, pointing to a broader trend where teams, like the Thunder and the Boston Celtics, have built resilience through strong systems. As load management becomes more common and star players frequently miss games, the advantages of teams with robust structures are becoming increasingly evident.
Lessons Learned and Insights
Mitchell acknowledged that teams can no longer be taken lightly, even when key players are absent. He cited the Cavs’ own experience earlier in the season when they overcame significant absences to defeat the Miami Heat. The reality is that many players, although less recognized, possess considerable talent.
Conclusion: A Call for Change in Marketing
The NBA faces a marketing challenge in promoting emerging talent rather than solely relying on its star players. As the league evolves, it may need to rethink its strategies to better showcase the depth and quality of the teams, ensuring fans remain engaged regardless of star availability.
