Johnnie Bryant is leaving his position as associate head coach with the New York Knicks to join the Cleveland Cavaliers in the same role under new head coach Kenny Atkinson. Bryant, who spent six seasons with the Utah Jazz before joining the Knicks in 2020, has a significant history with Cavaliers' star Donovan Mitchell, having been his mentor and player development coach. The move reunites Bryant with Mitchell, who recently signed a long-term extension with the Cavaliers. This transition is seen as a focus on player development for the Cavaliers, aligning with Atkinson's vision for the team. While the Knicks have hired Maurice Cheeks to fill the gap left by Bryant, his departure is considered a substantial loss given his positive impact on players like Julius Randle and Immanuel Quickley.