Cleveland Cavaliers Part Ways with Coach J.B. Bickerstaff Following Playoff Exit
The Cleveland Cavaliers have parted ways with head coach J.B. Bickerstaff following their elimination from the NBA playoffs at the hands of the Boston Celtics. The decision was announced by Cavaliers president of basketball operations Koby Altman.
Altman acknowledged Bickerstaff's contributions, stating, "J.B. is a well-respected NBA coach and an incredible human being. Over the past four years, he helped establish a culture that progressively drove players to become the best versions of themselves. Decisions like these are never easy, particularly when you look back at where this franchise rebuild started under his leadership."
Despite guiding the Cavaliers to back-to-back playoff appearances and their first postseason series victory since 2018, Bickerstaff's tenure ultimately came to an end. The team is now on the lookout for a new head coach.
Potential candidates for the vacant position include Golden State Warriors assistant Kenny Atkinson and New Orleans Pelicans associate coach James Borrego, as reported by The Athletic's Shams Charania, Joe Vardon, and Jason Lloyd.
Under Bickerstaff's leadership, the Cavaliers secured a playoff series win against the Orlando Magic, marking their first postseason victory since 1993 without LeBron James. However, they were eliminated by the Celtics in the conference semifinals.
There were reportedly concerns among players, including star Donovan Mitchell, regarding Bickerstaff's game management, practices, and accountability measures. This dissatisfaction likely influenced the decision to part ways with the coach.
The organization remains optimistic about securing Mitchell's long-term commitment, with reports suggesting a potential four-year, $208-million extension in the offseason.
Bickerstaff's tenure with the Cavaliers saw him take over as interim coach from John Beilein in 2020. He compiled a record of 170-159 over five seasons with the franchise, including 99 wins over the last two seasons.
