With Mike Brown back, Cavaliers look to improve

Associated Press

CLEVELAND

He was fired in the early days of that infamous summer three years ago when a “Decision” changed everything for the Cavaliers.

Now, after a short, tumultuous stay in Los Angeles, the bald, bespectacled, defensive-minded coach often criticized for his stagnant offense, has returned to lead Cleveland out of the NBA’s darkness.

Mike Brown is back.

Is LeBron James next?

Dismissed in 2010 by owner Dan Gilbert after the Cavs were eliminated in the playoffs, Brown inherits a team similar to the one he had in 2005, when James blossomed into a superstar and Cleveland won 50 games to get back into the postseason for the first time since 1998.

Since Brown left, the Cavs have lost 166 games, a downward spiral that began when James packed up his MVP trophies and talents for Miami. But with All-Star point guard Kyrie Irving, a revamped roster and playing in the top-heavy Eastern Conference, Cleveland should return to contention and may be one of the league’s surprises.

“I feel we definitely have the pieces this year,” said Irving, who averaged 22.4 points and 5.9 assists last season. “We have the chance to be something special.”

BYNUM’S BUM KNEES: Needing a big man for Irving, the Cavs signed free agent center Andrew Bynum to a two-year contract this summer.

Bynum’s only 25, but his knees are worn. He didn’t play one second last season with Philadelphia because of issues with his knees. The 7-footer has been making good progress, and the Cavs are crossing their fingers that he will help them.

Bynum changes the game simply by being on the floor, and if he’s able to get back to being close to his All-Star form, the Cavs’ ascent will quicken.

NOT TONY BENNETT: The surprise No. 1 overall pick, Anthony Bennett has all the tools. He’s big, strong, can create his own shot and Brown believes the 6-foot-8, 250-pounder’s defense will improve.

Bennett’s still working himself into shape after undergoing shoulder surgery. Brown recently disclosed the former UNLV suffers from asthma and sleep apnea, which may have hindered his conditioning.

Cleveland needs a dependable scorer to compliment Irving, and although Bennett may begin the season coming off the bench, it may not be long before he’s starting.

JACK OF ALL TRADES: Among the Cavs’ most notable offseason moves was the signing of free agent guard Jarrett Jack to a four-year $25 million contract.

Jack, who played with the Warriors last season, is more than a serviceable backup at point for Irving, assuring there won’t be a huge drop in production — at both ends of the floor — when Brown pulls his starters. Jack can play either guard position, making him an insurance plan in case Irving gets hurt.