Atkinson confident Cavs can take the next step. Team optimistic Mitchell will sign an extension

INDEPENDENCE, Ohio — From the outside, Kenny Atkinson kept tabs on Cleveland and recognized something special happening with the Cavaliers. “I knew all the great things that were in place.” With a sterling reputation for developing young players, the 57-year-old Atkinson who spent the past three seasons as Steve Kerr’s top assistant in Golden State came across as earnest and excited about this new opportunity — his second head coaching gig — during a 45-minute news conference at the team’s facility. Atkinson made it clear he’s a very different coach now after spending one season under Tyronn Lue with the Los Angeles Clippers and three under Kerr — an experience he likened to “getting your doctorate in basketball.” Along with drawing up X’s and O’s and designing offenses to keep pace with today’s game, Atkinson said one of the biggest things he gleaned from Kerr was his uncanny ability to work with superstars like Steph Curry and Kevin Durant. Why don’t we do this?’ So really, it’s a true partnership, and that means you better be a great listener when you do have those one-on-ones.” Atkinson quickly put that practice to work this weekend as he, Altman and other members of the organization visited Mitchell at the All-Star guard’s “Spida Elite Camp” in Los Angeles for the nation’s best young guards. He’s been super involved and super collaborative and very, very much pro-Cleveland.” Atkinson said he made a “great connection” while speaking with Mitchell, whom he believes can take his game to another level.