Cavaliers Reward Head Coach For Team's Sizzling Start

 

The Cleveland Cavaliers have soared to a 19-13 start this season, putting them amongst the elite in the Eastern Conference. And ownership has taken notice, signing head coach JB Bickerstaff to a multi-year extension.

The Cavs and head coach JB Bickerstaff have agreed to a contract extension that will keep him in Cleveland through 2026-27.

The Cavs are 19-13 and No. 5 in the East 👏 pic.twitter.com/2K0e6SlbFH

— Yahoo Sports NBA (@YahooSportsNBA) December 25, 2021

Adrian Wojnarowski reports that Bickerstaff will now be at the helm of the Cavaliers through the 2026-27 season. 

Cleveland's resurgence has been sparked by rookie Evan Mobley, along with the breakthrough seasons of center Jarrett Allen and point guard Darius Miles. Kevin Love has re-emerged as a viable piece off the bench, along with backup point guard Ricky Rubio, who was brought in during the offseason. 

But it's been Bickerstaff at the helm, guiding this new lineup to its rousing start. In a team statement, GM Koby Altman explained the reasons for the contract extension. 

"J.B. Bickerstaff is, with all certainty, the right head coach to lead this franchise into what we believe is a very promising future. The decision to extend J.B. is not based solely on the early success of this season, but rather a body of work since his arrival to Cleveland. His leadership style, coaching experience and commitment to player development has instilled a growing confidence that resonates across our entire organization. 

"We continue to see innovative and strategic examples of his impact on this roster, coupled by his unique ability to build upon a culture that leads to sustainable success."

His impact can easily be seen in the stats. The Cavs have risen from 25th in defensive efficiency last season, to 3rd in the league this season. And in a recent 6-game win streak, their average margin of victory was 21.5 points. 

Photo Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports