This is the BIGGEST TAKEAWAY from the Cleveland Cavaliers preseason opener against Chicago

This is the BIGGEST TAKEAWAY from the Cleveland Cavaliers preseason opener against Chicago

The Cleveland Cavaliers opened preseason play against the Chicago Bulls on Tuesday night, and while the 114-108 loss won’t show up in the standings, it revealed a lot about where this team stands. The biggest takeaway? The Cavs’ new-look offense under Kenny Atkinson is real — and it’s already changing how this group plays. The ball moved faster, spacing was cleaner, and the tempo felt intentional. Cleveland attempted 37 threes and looked far more comfortable running five-out sets with Evan Mobley operating as a decision-maker at the elbow.

Evan Mobley stood out in a big way, finishing with 18 points, 6 boards, and a new level of confidence attacking off the dribble. His improved touch from mid-range and willingness to shoot from deep showed that his offseason work is translating. Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland played limited minutes but looked in sync, moving the ball with pace and letting the offense flow through multiple hands instead of heavy isolation. That balance — something Atkinson has emphasized — could be the key to taking the next step offensively.

But perhaps the most promising sign came from the Cavs’ depth. Craig Porter Jr. gave them energy off the bench, rookie Tyrese Proctor looked poised, and Georges Niang brought the shooting punch Cleveland sorely missed late last season. The defense still has wrinkles to iron out — especially in transition — but the identity shift was clear. The Cavs looked freer, faster, and more modern. And if this was just a glimpse of Atkinson’s vision, Cleveland fans should be encouraged about what’s coming next.

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