LeBron James: David Blatt was 'scrutinized really for nothing'
Cavaliers forward LeBron James defended his coach on Monday.
Cleveland Cavaliers superstar LeBron James hasn't always been the most vocal, public support of head coach David Blatt this season, but that changed at Monday's media availability. A reporter asked him if he has empathy for Blatt because of the scrutiny he's received throughout his first year as an NBA head coach.
"Well, any time someone is scrutinized really for nothing, I'm able to relate," James said. "For him in his instance, obviously, we knew there were a lot of people that were going to say things that didn't mean much, but that's just what they have to do. That's what helps sales.
"People love reading the negative things more than the positive things, and I think he's handled the situation unbelievably," he continued. "Being a rookie coach in the NBA and being able to take this team to the Finals, I think he's done a hell of a job."
James went on to say he doesn't think Blatt cares about not getting credit from people on the outside, and that it shouldn't matter what anyone thinks outside of the organization.
It's fair, though, to say that James could have changed the conversation by saying this earlier. Even though Blatt and the Cavs have totally turned things around since their 19-20 start, there has been continued speculation as to how "safe" the coach is, at least in the sports talk radio world. Strong, supportive statements from James at some point before June would have stopped all of that, which is why this vote of confidence is significant.
