The Cleveland Cavaliers have emerged as one of this season’s success stories, and the architect behind their rise is finally getting his due recognition.
Koby Altman, serving as president of basketball operations, has methodically built a team that’s turning heads across the league through smart roster construction and patience.
On a recent “Full Court Cleveland” podcast episode, analyst Nick Pedone highlighted Altman’s crucial role in the team’s success.
“This iteration of the Cavs did it their own way and credit Kobe Altman for sticking with his guns – sticking by the core four,” Nick Pedone said.
We STILL don't give Koby Altman enough credit for sticking to his guns. #LetEmKnow
"This iteration of the Cavs did it their own way. He stuck by the Core Four."
Find @drinkgaragebeer near you: https://t.co/0hWx2M2P6T pic.twitter.com/U4Cls3Aosy
— Full Court Cleveland (@FullCourtCLE) April 14, 2025
What distinguishes this Cavaliers team from previous successful eras is the deliberate approach to team building.
Unlike the LeBron James years, when Cleveland quickly assembled veteran talent to maximize championship windows, Altman chose a more measured path focused on development and strategic acquisitions.
This approach meant investing time in young talent like Darius Garland and Evan Mobley, allowing them to grow into their roles rather than rushing their development.
Altman also displayed remarkable savvy in the trade market, particularly when acquiring Jarrett Allen as part of a larger three-team deal involving James Harden.
His patience paid off again when he secured Donovan Mitchell at precisely the right moment, adding a proven scorer to complement the developing core.
The recent coaching transition to Kenny Atkinson represents yet another calculated move in Altman’s growing portfolio of smart decisions.
Altman’s talent evaluation skills have reshaped the Cleveland roster into a balanced, competitive unit.
His efforts earned him a tie for second place in the 2022 NBA Executive of the Year voting, though his focus clearly extends beyond individual accolades.
NEXT: Kenny Atkinson Sends Message About Cavs Ahead Of Playoffs
