Cavaliers Reacts Survey: Kenny Atkinson’s approval rating sinks

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Cavaliers fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

Last week, we asked you a round of questions. Let’s see how Cleveland Cavaliers fans reacted.

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First, we asked a long-standing question that has only grown more relevant over time. Do the Cavs need to make any major changes at the trade deadline?

A whopping 61% of the fan base voted yes; the Cavs need to make significant changes. That’s a third of voters signaling they want to see a new roster by February.

Making changes to this team will be difficult, given the second-apron of it all. Cleveland will have limited options for how they can re-tool their roster. Unless you have a plan for shedding roughly $20 million in salary without taking any back, I struggle to see how this team can make meaningful changes without taking a drastic step backwards.

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Then there’s the reality that Cleveland’s biggest trade chips are likely suffering from a lack of value. We just saw Trae Young get traded for a bag of chips. Do you think Darius Garland’s value is going to be much higher considering his recent injury history? Or Jarrett Allen, who everyone knows has been the odd man out for years?

Don’t get me wrong. I understand the frustrations. But I have to disagree with 61% of the fan base here. Any changes to this team should happen after the season is over. Unless you’re in favor of blowing it all up and starting a rebuild right now.

Our second question was focused on Kenny Atkinson. Simply put, are you happy with the way he has coached this season?

Just 53% of fans voted in favor of Atkinson. We don’t have the numbers from last season, but I’d imagine his approval rating was 20-30 points higher than it is right now. It’s crazy the difference a year can make

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Notably, we conducted this survey before Atkinson chose to start Craig Porter Jr. next to the core four in a loss to Minnesota. I wonder if that would have tilted the scales and dropped him below 50%.

I will say I have faith in Atkinson. I think most of Cleveland’s issues have been a product of the players, not the coaching. But I can’t deny that Kenny has made some questionable decisions this season.

Let’s hope the next survey will be more positive for both the players and the coaching staff.