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Cavs’ Coach Addresses the LeBron James Free Agency Sweepstakes

Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson addressed the loss to the Philadelphia 76ers in the pursuit of LeBron James in free agency.

By Toran Flores · HEAVY

Published: Thursday, 22 October 2026 at 11:23 PM

Key Things to Know

Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson admitted he felt depressed after missing out on signing free agent LeBron James.
James signed a two-year, $7.94 million free-agent deal with the Philadelphia 76ers instead of returning to Cleveland.
Cleveland quickly pivoted following the missed signing to acquire Peyton Watson via a five-team sign-and-trade deal.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson revealed he felt "depressed" after missing out on signing LeBron James in free agency. James ultimately chose to join the Philadelphia 76ers on a two-year, $7.94 million contract rather than returning to Cleveland for a third tenure. Atkinson made the comments ahead of the Cavaliers' season-opening matchup against Philadelphia.

After failing to sign James, the Cavaliers pivoted by acquiring Peyton Watson in a complex five-team sign-and-trade deal. Atkinson praised team owner Dan Gilbert and president Koby Altman for aggressively reshaping the roster alongside extended stars James Harden and Donovan Mitchell.

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Cavs’ Coach Addresses the LeBron James Free Agency Sweepstakes

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