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NFL·ANALYSIS·October 23, 2026 09:23 AM ET

Cavaliers questioned over late-game closing ability under Kenny Atkinson

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 1h1 min read
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This. 100% this. Charles said it better than me. #Cavs have great players. But no stone cold killers that close an oppon Via @RuiterWrongFAN on X

What happened: The Cleveland Cavaliers face scrutiny over whether their roster lacks a closer capable of finishing off opponents late in tight games. The critique argues that neither head coach Kenny Atkinson nor any other coaching staff can teach that closing mentality.

Why it matters: Late-game execution remains a central question for Cleveland whenever opponents mount a rally down the stretch.

What to watch: Cleveland's execution in upcoming close finishes under Kenny Atkinson will test the roster's ability to put opponents away.

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