Kenny Atkinson calls out Cavaliers’ lack of energy

Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson criticized his team's effort following a 124-112 defeat to the Charlotte Hornets on Monday. Atkinson noted a major energy disparity between the starters and Charlotte, stating the Hornets played with high energy while Cleveland lacked intensity. The Cavaliers trailed by up to 33 points in the third quarter before suffering their fourth loss in six road games.

Atkinson commended the bench unit for playing the entire fourth quarter with toughness, helping trim the deficit to eight points. Meleek Thomas scored 18 points, while Craig Porter Jr., Norchad Omier, and Tyrese Proctor also earned praise. Atkinson stressed that fatigue is no excuse and demanded immediate improvement in rebounding ahead of Wednesday's game against the New York Knicks.