Why Cavs’ Evan Mobley enters new season with ‘chip on his shoulder’

Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson believes forward Evan Mobley is entering the upcoming season with a chip on his shoulder. Atkinson pointed to Mobley's lack of accolades last season and external noise as primary motivators. Mobley is coming off a strong campaign where he averaged 18.2 points and 9.0 rebounds per contest while playing alongside Donovan Mitchell.

The Cavaliers have reaffirmed their long-term commitment to Mobley by choosing not to trade him for superstar talent. According to ESPN reporter Brian Windhorst, Cleveland opted to retain Mobley rather than pursue high-profile trades, while also bringing in Peyton Watson to strengthen the starting lineup.