Evan Mobley’s development is key to Cleveland Cavaliers‘ ceiling this season and in the near future. He’s already established himself as an elite defensive player, but it’s time we start seeing him progress on the offensive end.

Part of that growth is Mobley initiating the Cavaliers’ offense and running it through him instead of the power forward waiting for the ball to come to him.

“Those decisions that come up (with the ball) are a big part of his development and his growth,” Kenny Atkinson said after Cleveland’s win over the New York Knicks.

“All his life there’s been a point guard with the ball and making these plays, and he’s usually the one sitting behind. Now all of a sudden, and we’re saying, ‘You’re talking about it.’ There’s going to be some growing pains, but he’s definitely working on his decisions.”

While this is a new part of Mobley’s game and mistakes will happen, Atkinson points out that the striker bringing the ball in and initiating offense is something we will continue to see.

The Cleveland head coach continued: “If you look at the stats, him lifting the ball in transition, we’re knocking on wood so far, it’s really good. So you’re going to see more of that .”

After a great start to the season in Cleveland’s first game, Mobley’s statistics went down a bit. He is currently averaging 17.8 points, 9.0 rebounds and 2.8 assists through Wine and Gold’s first four games.

However, anyone who has watched the first week of games knows that Mobley has looked more physical, more confident and more assertive, especially on the offensive side of the ball.

As Atkinson mentions, Mobley starting the offense will have some learning curves. But these are necessary for him to unlock his potential, and fans can expect even more as the season progresses.