David Blatt has been fired by the Cleveland Cavaliers according to Adrian Wojnarowski. In the wake of Blatt’s stunning ouster Friday, ESPN reported “unrest growing in Cavs locker room” that had been present since “almost day one, and pointed to James’ “desire to be coached by a former player”.
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The Cavaliers are 30-11 and leading the Central Division with the best record in the Eastern Conference, but earlier this week suffered a 132-98 loss at home to the defending champion Golden State Warriors.
Blatt’s stirring first season was watched with great interest in Israel as fans and media followed the Cavs on their run to the championship round.
Blatt came to Cleveland in 2014 after coaching Maccabi Tel Aviv for four years.
Associate head coach Tyronn Lue has been elevated to head coach.
LeBron James was not consulted before the Cavaliers made the move to dismiss Blatt and was informed of the decision Friday, sources told Windhorst.
The Cavs rebounded to beat the Nets and Clippers, but those two wins apparently couldn’t save Blatt’s job.
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LeBron huddling frequently with [assistant coach Tyronn] Lue and so often looking at anyone other than Blatt. In 2014-2015, Cleveland finished with a 53-29 record and reached Game 6 of the NBA Finals against the Golden State Warriors despite missing star point guard Kyrie Irving and power forward Kevin Love.
