Cleveland Cavaliers coach J.B. Bickerstaff’s future with the team remains uncertain despite their advancement to the Eastern Conference semifinals. Multiple reports indicate that both Bickerstaff and his assistant coaches are still under evaluation, with no guarantees of their return for the next season.
Bickerstaff has led the Cavaliers to back-to-back playoff appearances, including a hard-fought seven-game first-round series victory over the Orlando Magic. These achievements bolster his case, and he expressed his desire to continue coaching in Cleveland. After the season-ending loss to the Boston Celtics on Wednesday, Bickerstaff responded to questions about his future candidly.
“I mean, no one’s told me I’m not. So, I’ll keep showing up ’til they tell me not to,” he said.
❌ ZERO ECF appearances
❌ ZERO division titles
📊 170-159 overall recordShould the Cavs FIRE J.B. Bickerstaff?#LetEmKnow | #NBAPlayoffs pic.twitter.com/tJ19vnp9TU
— FanDuel (@FanDuel) May 16, 2024
In his four-plus seasons with the Cavaliers, the 45-year-old coach has amassed a 170-159 record, with a playoff record of 6-11. The Cavaliers face significant roster decisions before the end of June, particularly concerning All-Star Donovan Mitchell. Mitchell, who has one season remaining on his contract and a player option for 2025-26, is eligible to sign a four-year extension worth over $200 million this offseason if he chooses to commit long-term to Cleveland. The outcome of these decisions could significantly impact the direction of the team’s leadership and future.