In a revealing new episode of the Wine and Gold Talk Podcast, reporters Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor, and Jimmy Watkins discuss what could be a major turning point for the Cleveland Cavaliers organization. The conversation centered on a potentially destabilizing development: two of the team’s most valued assistant coaches Jordan Ott and Johnnie Bryant—have reportedly become the only finalists for the Phoenix Suns’ head coaching position.
The possibility of losing either, or even both, is a serious concern for a Cavaliers team that has worked hard to build a competitive foundation. Following a season of solid progress, Cleveland currently holds the third-highest odds to win the NBA championship in 2026. But the potential departure of Ott and Bryant could severely shake the continuity and chemistry that’s helped position the team as a legitimate title contender.
The concern, however, goes far beyond X’s and O’s. What’s truly at risk is the deep rapport and trust that these coaches have developed with the Cavs’ core players.
Jordan Ott, in particular, has been a central figure in the development of rising star Evan Mobley, who enjoyed a breakout season under Ott’s guidance. His impact on Mobley has not gone unnoticed, and it’s clear that his role within the organization extends well beyond that of a typical assistant coach.
As Chris Fedor emphasized during the podcast, “The guy that was given the responsibility to oversee the most important player in the organization’s development was Jordan Ott. That’s how much Kenny Atkinson trusts Jordan Ott.” That level of trust speaks volumes about Ott’s value—not only to the coaching staff but to the franchise’s long-term vision centered around Mobley.
Meanwhile, Johnnie Bryant is equally respected for his work with guards and player development, having built strong relationships with key contributors in Cleveland’s backcourt.
If either coach takes the job in Phoenix, the Cavs would face a difficult challenge in replacing not just their strategic minds, but their interpersonal bonds with the locker room—something far harder to replicate.
With the Suns reportedly narrowing their coaching search to just these two Cleveland assistants, a major coaching transition could be just around the corner, potentially leaving the Cavaliers scrambling to recalibrate as they prepare for a crucial offseason.
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