Cavs Coach Atkinson: LeBron's Sixers Move Was a Blow

Cleveland Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson described the initial "depression" felt by the team upon learning LeBron James would sign with the Philadelphia 76ers this past summer. James, who had considered Cleveland among five finalists, ultimately chose to play his record-setting 24th NBA season with the Sixers on a two-year, $8 million deal with a player option. Despite this setback, Atkinson lauded the Cavaliers' front office for their aggressive strategy in quickly shifting focus. The team executed a complicated five-team deal to acquire forward Peyton Watson from the Denver Nuggets in a sign-and-trade. Watson, 24, was then signed to a four-year, $88 million contract with Cleveland. Atkinson commended the team's ability to "switch gears" and take risks following the tough blow of losing James.