NBA: Cavs expected to retain Kenny Atkinson; James Harden wants to return – report

The Cleveland Cavaliers are expected to retain head coach Kenny Atkinson for the 2026-27 NBA season following the team’s run to the Eastern Conference finals, according to multiple reports.

Cleveland’s playoff campaign ended Monday night after a disappointing four-game sweep at the hands of the New York Knicks. The series began with the Cavaliers surrendering a 22-point fourth-quarter lead in Game 1 before closing out with a 130-93 defeat in Game 4.

Despite the postseason collapse, Atkinson remains highly regarded within the organization after guiding Cleveland to one of its best seasons in recent years. He was named NBA Coach of the Year last season after helping the Cavaliers reach the conference finals for the first time in years. Atkinson signed a five-year contract when he was hired in 2024.

All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell voiced his support for Atkinson following the Cavaliers’ elimination, praising the coach for helping the team move past previous second-round exits.

“We love Kenny. I ride with Kenny,” Mitchell said Monday.

Atkinson has compiled a 116-48 regular-season record in two seasons with Cleveland. Before joining the Cavaliers, he served as head coach of the Brooklyn Nets from 2016 to 2020 and later worked as an assistant coach for several NBA teams, including the Golden State Warriors from 2021 to 2024.

The Cavaliers could undergo significant roster changes this offseason. Mitchell is eligible for a long-term contract extension, while veteran guard James Harden must decide on his $42.3 million player option for the 2026-27 season. ESPN reported Harden is expected to negotiate a new two-year deal at a reduced salary to remain with Cleveland. Harden said Monday he “definitely wants to be” with the Cavaliers.

Cleveland has also been linked to several major offseason possibilities, including a potential reunion with LeBron James, who recently said he is still evaluating his plans for next season.

The Cavaliers have likewise been rumored as a possible destination for Giannis Antetokounmpo if the Milwaukee Bucks decide to entertain trade offers. Reports indicated Cleveland discussed a potential deal with Milwaukee before the trade deadline but was unwilling to include Evan Mobley in negotiations. -Field Level Media/Reuters