Cleveland Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson credited his lineup for a dominant defensive showing in Tuesday’s 109-94 win over the New York Knicks. “It’s nice having Evan back… that starting lineup’s pretty good defensively. You got Evan, Dean, and JA,” he said.
Atkinson praised the addition of Dennis Schroder and Keon Ellis. “Dennis and Keon, that helps,” he said. He emphasized that their defensive activity disrupted the Knicks’ rhythm. “We definitely took advantage of our speed tonight to disrupt them,” Atkinson explained.
Dean Wade earned special mention for his dual role. “He’s elite defensively… he helps us on the rebounding part, which is one of our weaknesses,” Atkinson said. Wade’s off-ball contributions and screening ability also strengthened Cleveland’s pick-and-roll strategy.
Jarrett Allen continued his strong stretch, recording another double-double. “He’s just caught this wave… he’s playing out of his mind. Both ends,” Atkinson said, noting Allen’s confidence growth while Evan Mobley was sidelined. He added that health played a role: “I do think him being healthy definitely a part of it.”
The Cavs’ rotation strategy also drew attention. Atkinson chose a shortened rotation with a ten-man approach. “We had a good lead… kind of wanted to stick with the shorter rotation cuz we’re going well,” he said.
Cleveland’s defensive execution included limiting New York to 3-of-24 shooting in the third quarter. “That was kind of the blueprint tonight… offensively played in a short role, limited mistakes, and played darn good defense,” Atkinson said, referring to Jaylon Tyson’s performance guarding Jalen Brunson.
On James Harden’s free-throw frequency, Atkinson encouraged continued aggression. “Just keep putting your nose in there… the calls will come. It’s probably small sample size still,” he said. He also praised the coordination between Schroder and Donovan Mitchell. “They’re like two kind of quarterbacks talking things through… that’s been one of the real positives,” Atkinson noted.
The Cavaliers, now 37-22, strengthened their grip near the top of the Eastern Conference. Atkinson emphasized the importance of physicality and spot control. “We have to do a better job of winning our spot… I thought tonight we won our spots across the board,” he said.
Cleveland begins a three-game road trip Wednesday in Milwaukee, while the Knicks travel there Friday.
