Kenny Atkinson points to what the Cleveland Cavaliers must do to beat the Oklahoma City Thunder.
When the Cleveland Cavaliers and Oklahoma City Thunder squared off this time last year, it was one of the most hyped up regular seasons games in recent memory. Each team was playing at an elite level and appeared to be on a crash course for the Finals.
This time around, it’s a little bit different. The Thunder are fresh off winning the franchise’s first championship and have a stellar 35-8 record, while the Cavaliers have been struggling with injuries and consistency all season long.
Yes, it is still January, but this game is a pivotal matchup for the Wine and Gold.
“These are the fun games for me, 'cause you don't have to motivate the guys,” said Kenny Atkinson at practice.
“Obviously, we do our scout and all that, but there's no rah rah speech. Some games you gotta get guys up for the game, and this one, this one you don't. I think we relish the challenge.”
Jan 8, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (31) drives to the basket against Oklahoma City Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein (55) during the second half at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn ImagesDespite all of Cleveland’s shortcomings, they have been playing better basketball over the last few weeks, just in time for their matchup against the Thunder.
In the last seven games, Cleveland owns an offensive rating of 119.9, which is third best in the NBA. On the other hand, Oklahoma’s offensive rating is only 114.6 in that same stretch.
Of course, Cleveland’s will stars will need to show up for the Cavaliers to have a chance against the Thunder. Atkinson stressed the team must “continue to trust the young guys” of Jaylon Tyson, Nae’qwan Tomlin, and Tyrese Proctor.
“Tomorrow, they're gonna, they're gonna really put a lot of attention on those two guys [Evan Mobley and Donovan Mitchell]. So they got to be able to share the ball, trust their teammates, keep making their teammates better. Then we're gonna have to find some creativity.”
Taking on the Thunder won’t be easy, but the Cavaliers are up for the challenge and know what’s at stake. A convincing victory over the best team in the NBA would remind the entire league just how dangerous a team Cleveland still is and can be.
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