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Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson under pressure amid 5-6 start

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 11, 2026, 7:14 AM

Last updated Nov 11, 2026

Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson under pressure amid 5-6 start

Summary

Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson is facing increased scrutiny following a 5-6 start to the 2026-2027 NBA season. After a disappointing exit from the Eastern Conference Finals, Atkinson's leadership is questioned, particularly after the team's recent struggles, including a 124-112 loss to the Charlotte Hornets. Defensive issues, lineup chemistry problems, and early injuries have contributed to this rough patch, while criticism has also been directed at 37-year-old guard James Harden for his declining performance. NBA analyst Kevin O'Connor suggests the Cavaliers' roster issues are a bigger problem than coaching, indicating a deeper assessment may be necessary.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Cavaliers are currently 5-6 in the NBA season.
•Team lost four of the last five games, including to the Hornets.
•James Harden's performance is drawing criticism for lack of effort.
•Injuries have affected key players like Jarrett Allen.
•Analyst believes roster construction is main issue, not coaching.

Latest Updates

7:14 AMYahoo Sports — Cavaliers Head Coach in Hot Seat, Says NBA Insider

What they're saying

"
The Cleveland Cavaliers head coach is under mounting pressure to deliver amid the team’s early-season struggles. Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson is facing growing scrutiny and mounting job pressure amid a disappointing 5-6 start to the 2026-2027 NBA season. Kenny Atkinson’s Future With The Cavaliers In Question On SiriusXM NBA Radio, NBA insider Marc Stein […] The post Cavaliers Head Coach in Hot Seat, Says NBA Insider appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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