Kenny Atkinson’s bizarre explanation for puzzling decisions behind Cavaliers collapse against Knicks
Kenny Atkinson faced criticism for his coaching decisions during the Cavaliers' loss to the Knicks in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals. Despite holding a 22-point lead, the Cavaliers collapsed, prompting questions about Atkinson's timeout management and player substitutions. Analysts, including Charles Barkley and Shaquille O'Neal, expressed their disbelief at the lack of strategic adjustments during the game.
- ▪Kenny Atkinson's Cavaliers lost to the Knicks 115-104 after leading by 22 points.
- ▪Atkinson called only one timeout during a critical 30-8 run by the Knicks in the fourth quarter.
- ▪James Harden struggled defensively against Jalen Brunson, who scored 38 points, yet Atkinson kept him in the game.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
NBA New York Knicks Kenny Atkinson’s bizarre explanation for puzzling decisions behind Cavaliers collapse against Knicks By Christian Arnold Published May 20, 2026, 12:45 a.m. ET See more of our coverage in your search results. Add The New York Post on Google Kenny Atkinson attempted to explain the rationale for his curious decision-making in the fourth quarter as his Cavaliers watched a 22-point lead disappear. The Cavaliers coach was ripped by fans and analysts on Tuesday night after the Knicks completed a 115-104 comeback win to take Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals. Questions mounted over his decision to call just one timeout while the Knicks went on a 30-8 run in the final quarter, and over why he left James Harden in the game as he got torched by New York.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at New York Post.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from New York Post
