Pressure Mounts on Kenny Atkinson as Cavaliers Struggle

Merlin sees growing heat around Kenny Atkinson after Cleveland’s 15 14 start. Marc Stein says he has heard "pressure is indeed mounting," though one source pushed back and owner Dan Gilbert had been the strongest voice backing Atkinson over James Borrego. The gap from last season’s 25 4 start and Coach of the Year finish is stark. Injuries to Darius Garland, who has played 13 games, and Jarrett Allen, who has missed 11, have left the Cavs without a settled lineup. Merlin senses a fragile calm. If health returns and the team steadies, Atkinson’s seat cools. If struggles linger, whispers could become decisions, especially with Gilbert reportedly "unhappy about what's going on." Expect the story to widen before it resolves.