How Kenny Atkinson Felt When LeBron James Rejected Cleveland

The missed opportunity

When the Cleveland Cavaliers started their season against the Philadelphia 76ers, it brought back painful memories for coach Kenny Atkinson. LeBron James was playing for the Sixers instead of starting a third stint with the franchise that drafted him. Cleveland was one of the five finalists James considered after leaving the Los Angeles Lakers to play a record-setting 24th NBA season.

Cleveland was the only finalist to get an in person visit from James. He met with team president Koby Altman, vice president of business operations Grant Gilbert, and general manager Brandon Weems. James ultimately signed a two year, $8 million contract with Philadelphia on July 24, posting on social media that Northeast Ohio will always be home.

Coping with the disappointment

Atkinson admitted that missing out on James hurt the team initially. He spoke about the emotional toll before the game.

Having gone through free agency a lot, when you are expecting something to happen and it does not happen, that first day or two, you are just depressed, quite honestly, Atkinson said.

Despite the tough blow, Atkinson praised the front office for moving on quickly. Cleveland put together a five team deal to acquire 24 year old forward Peyton Watson from the Denver Nuggets. Watson then signed a four year, $88 million contract with the team.