The former Michigan coach John Beilein is stepping down as the coach of the Cleveland cavaliers following a 54 game stint with the side in this season. He is reported to part ways with the side after having a rough season so far as the side has just managed to win 14 matches while losing 40 of them. They find themselves as one of the worst-performing teams in the Eastern Conference with the last place.
John Beilein, who was a surprising hire by the Cavs last year because of his age (67) and lack of any pro experience, is expected to say goodbye to staff and players Wednesday when they return from the All-Star break. Associate head coach J.B. Bickerstaff is expected to take over on an interim basis for Beilein. Bickerstaff coached in Memphis for nearly two full seasons before being fired last year. He was also Houston Rockets’ head coach in 2015-16. Beilein’s departure has piled up another trouble for the Cavaliers who have been struggling to stick with the most appropriate coach and staffing over the last few years.
Coming from college-level coaching, Beilein never got comfortable with the Cavaliers side in his short stint with the side. He struggled to adjust to the pro game with its more demanding travel schedule and lack of practice time. Cavaliers had hired him with a hope that his college background coaching would give him an advantage in developing Cleveland’s young players like guards Collin Sexton and Darius Garland. However, Beilein had a hard time connecting with his players and several veterans grumbled publicly and privately about his style.
Virtually, out of the playoffs scenarios, Cleveland Cavaliers will now be looking to settle for the best head coach with a view to revamping the coaching structure, suitable for its players and have a good next season.
