Kenny Atkinson’s Optimistic Take on Cavaliers’ Deficit
Kenny Atkinson is really trying to keep a positive outlook amidst the Cavaliers’ tough situation. The head coach is facing a 3-0 deficit against the Knicks in the Eastern Conference Finals and has claimed that Cleveland is, in fact, holding their own against New York.
During a recent event, Atkinson even suggested that based on projected scores, the Cavaliers could have won two of those first three games.
“We’ve had some success against this team before. We’ve had some really good moments,” Atkinson mentioned to reporters. He emphasized, “In this series, we lost by 20 in Game 1. Then in Game 2, we came out strong in the third quarter, and things tightened up. Analytically, I think we won the expected outcomes; I said three out of three, but I think we should’ve taken two out of three. I know that sounds a bit odd, but if you believe in the process, there’s a layer to consider.”
He continued to express confidence in the team’s past performance. “I see it myself. We have this feeling, and, honestly, I can look at the analysis… The expected score last night was about one or two points. Our shooting was below par, but theirs was above expectations.”
His analysis could seem a bit misplaced, particularly given that the Knicks are close to making their first NBA Finals appearance since 1999. Meanwhile, the Cavaliers struggled significantly during Game 3, hitting only 29 percent from three-point range and missing crucial free throws, going 12-for-19.
This season, the Knicks have made history by winning ten straight postseason games, which is a new franchise record, all while outscoring their opponents by an average of 22.5 points.
Atkinson acknowledges the struggle. He noted that his optimistic comments may not resonate well with fans who watched the Cavaliers finish a challenging season. “I know when no one wants to hear that. I think the media likes to see it that way. The general public understands, but no one wants to hear it. Everyone is results-oriented, and I get that,” he admitted.
