Evan Mobley’s Magic Touch Powers Cavaliers to Top Seed in the East!

Cleveland Cavaliers’ head coach Kenny Atkinson often compares Evan Mobley to a basketball legend. “He reminds me of Magic Johnson,” Atkinson says. For example, in a game against Memphis in mid-March, Mobley grabbed a rebound early in the second quarter and instantly triggered a fast break. Transforming from a defensive giant at 6′ 11″ and 215 pounds to a dynamic playmaker, Mobley raced down the court. With his teammates spreading out, he halted at the three-point line and nailed a deep shot. “If he keeps making those,” Atkinson notes, “Wow.”

During his interview for the role of head coach with Cleveland, the central topic was Mobley’s growth. “It dominated the conversation,” Atkinson reveals, estimating it covered “seventy percent, if not more.” Three years into his career, Mobley had already shown he was an exceptional player, scoring around 15 points per game, blocking shots, and playing versatile defense. The Cavaliers, however, saw potential for even more. Atkinson’s job offer hinged on his vision for unlocking Mobley’s capabilities.

Atkinson’s strategy was straightforward: Increase Mobley’s involvement. Last season, Mobley’s usage rate was 20.0, placing him 130th among starters, according to NBA.com, right between John Collins and Vasilije Micic. Atkinson looked to other versatile big men like Domantas Sabonis and Bam Adebayo as examples of what Mobley could achieve, envisioning him as a pick-and-roll handler, a space creator, and a playmaker from the trailing position.

“Mobley has exceeded my expectations,” Atkinson admits. His initial understanding of Mobley was based on video analysis and their few encounters on the court when Atkinson was an assistant coach with the Golden State Warriors. “Just two days into training camp, I was amazed,” he says. Mobley’s skills in handling the ball were notably more refined than Atkinson had anticipated.

Mobley’s early training under his father, Eric, who encouraged him to develop skills typical of a guard, has been pivotal. Atkinson has been pushing Mobley to capitalize on these skills. “I urge him to push the pace after grabbing a rebound,” Atkinson says. “Sometimes he still looks to pass it off, but I want him to be more selfish with the ball and take charge of the playmaking.”

Atkinson trusts Mobley’s decision-making, rating his basketball IQ highly. Over the season, Mobley’s assist numbers have improved, from averaging 2.8 in January to 4.4 in April. His style, reminiscent of Magic Johnson, includes moments of flashy dribbling that surprises onlookers. “He’s got such creative moves,” Atkinson remarks, hopeful that with continued support, Mobley could reach Johnson’s level of creativity but acknowledges his current excellent game sense.

Supporting Mobley has been a team-wide effort. Last season, the Cavs won 48 games and made it to the second round of the playoffs. The team’s veterans, including All-Stars Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen, along with MVP contender Donovan Mitchell, were willing to adjust their roles to enhance Mobley’s. “They were all forward-thinking, focusing on how Mobley could be the key to our next steps,” Atkinson shares, emphasizing the importance of their selfless attitude for the team’s success.

In February, the team traded Caris LeVert and Georges Niang to Atlanta in exchange for De’Andre Hunter, a move that not only brought in a skilled three-point shooter but also opened up more opportunities for Mobley to take on a larger role in playmaking. Following the trade, the Cavs won their first 13 games with Hunter, during which Mobley averaged 19.2 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. When asked about the team’s potential, Mobley confidently responded, “A championship.”

More will be expected from Mobley moving forward. Already a defensive cornerstone, he’s also been enhancing his offensive game. Cavs TV analyst and former All-Star Austin Carr has praised him as “a savant.” Looking ahead, a potential conference finals matchup against Boston could hinge on Mobley’s performance against Kristaps Porzingis.

“I’m thrilled to see him starting to really expand his game,” says Atkinson. “He’s growing more confident, realizing his capabilities.”

When he fully realizes his potential, it’s going to be something truly … magical.