Typically, when you’re the reigning conference champions and the top seed in your conference the following year, you’d think your job security is pretty good.
Well, that wasn’t the case for David Blatt.
Following the firing of David Blatt, the Cleveland Cavaliers are (4-1) with their most recent victory coming against the San Antonio Spurs.
What has been the turning point?
According to Brian Windhorst and Zach Lowe, Cleveland held a very important meeting.
Following a meeting called by general manager David Griffin to inform the team coach David Blatt had been fired, Cavs players held an extended and spirited players-only meeting, sources told ESPN.com. It turned into an airing of grievances for players including stars LeBron James, Kevin Love and Kyrie Irving but eventually led to an agreement that has been a basis for the Cavs recent strong play.
“It was like ripping off a scab,” one team source said. “And it was exactly what needed to happen, I think it was what [Griffin] was hoping for.”
“It was very healthy for the team,” another source said. “It probably needed to happen weeks ago.”
Another noticeable difference is Tyronn Lue’s ability to hold everyone accountable, including LeBron James.
Now, did the removal of Blatt save the season?
Of course it didn’t, but at the same time, was the season ever really lost?
As mentioned before, Cleveland was still number one in the east under Blatt and no matter who is on the sideline come this spring, the Cavs will be heavy favorites to reach the NBA Finals once again.
The only question is, can Cleveland take down Golden State or San Antonio in June?