The Cleveland Cavaliers made a bold move recently, dismissing David Blatt as their head coach despite churning an Eastern Conference-leading performance.
Apparently, there were issues from within the Cavaliers organization, with Blatt believed to be losing the respect of the players. Many speculate that all of it started with that recent 34-point blowout loss to the Golden State Warriors.
Reports from ESPN say that there was unrest from within the team and the decision to part ways with Blatt was totally the call of general manager David Griffin.
The 56-year-old coach who is popular in the European league was thankful, nevertheless, for the opportunity and has not closed the doors of possibly coaching for another NBA team in the future.
With the firing, Blatt becomes the first coach since 1970–71 to be fired even with a good record.
Griffin goes on to explain that the decision to relieve Blatt was more than the win–loss card that the Cavs have right now. Blatt was, apparently, losing his connection with the players and such was something that could eventually turn out disastrous.
It didn't take long for the Cavs to name a replacement. Long-time assistant Tyronn Lue was installed as the new head coach, someone who has long been linked to the position.
Lue holds close ties with LeBron James, although Griffin made it clear that the Cavs star had nothing to do with Blatt's firing.
If not in the NBA, Blatt could get an offer to return to Europe. Right now, there are several teams who could use a coaching change, but applying at this point of the season could be risky. Chances are Blatt would be given an offer at best by the end of the regular season.
The shift to Lue's guidance didn't start out on a high note as the Cavs bowed to the Bulls recently. It will be equally interesting how the Cavs will respond to their new coach at this crucial stage of the season.
