Evan Mobley has been a consistent contributor on both ends for the Cleveland Cavaliers since the team drafted him with the No. 3 pick in 2021.
The game comes easily for Mobley, whose versatility has been a huge asset for the Cavaliers. Some, however, have been frustrated with the 6-foot-11 forward, knowing he can do a lot more and become a perennial All-Star with his talent and length.
Coach Kenny Atkinson believes the 25-year-old Mobley could be unlocked further if he mimics a Hall of Famer, as reported by SB Nation’s Tony Pesta.
“One of our assistants talked about how Kevin Garnett got his offense. He could get to a spot and just run, rise up, and shoot over guys. I like that prototype,” said Atkinson.
In his fifth season, Mobley averaged 18.2 points, 9.0 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.7 blocks. He shot 54.6% from the field.
For comparison, in his fifth year, Garnett tallied 22.9 points, 11.8 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.6 blocks. He shot 49.7% from the field.
Like Mobley, Garnett, who is also 6-foot-11, struggled to find success in the playoffs early in his career. But he continued to put in the work with his ferocious nature, becoming an MVP in 2004 and winning a title in 2008.
Atkinson added that he is still “threading the needle” in terms of urging Mobley, a one-time Defensive Player of the Year, to assert himself more, even though he has a laid-back personality.
“We’ve been on different planes of that scale with Mobley. You know, we’ve pushed it, we’ve pulled it back. I feel like he’s in a good place now. I have a much better grip on how he can be successful on both ends of the floor for us,” added Atkinson.
The Cavaliers will face the Orlando Magic in the preseason on Tuesday.