With a big win over the Philadelphia 76ers, the Cleveland Cavaliers are doing everything they can to keep their grip on their standing. With an almost fully healthy lineup, here’s a look at the Cavaliers big 114-117 victory over the 76ers.
The Cavaliers went with a starting lineup of Darius Garland, Donovan Mitchell, Max Strus, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen.
Leading the starters in scoring, Mobley finished with a 20 point, 11 rebound double double. Adding three assists, two blocks and a steal, Mobley was a force firing on all cylinders tonight. Capping an impressive performance, he attempted zero field goals in the first half, and hit a crucial three pointer late. His maturation as a player has come a long way, and it seems he’s still raising his ceiling.
Allen also had himself a double double, with 13 points and 11 rebounds. Grabbing the final rebound (on a missed game-tying free throw) and keeping it inbounds and the clock expired, Allen was arguably the deciding factor in tonight’s outing.
Garland, the third and final Cavalier with a double double, finished with 14 points, three rebounds and 12 assists. He also limited his turnovers to three, earning him the highest plus/minus of any player on the court tonight.
Mitchell, donning a mask, scored 14 points with eight assists, three rebounds and two steals in his return from a broken nose.
Georges Niang finished with a team high 25 points going 10-14 from the field with five threes. Sam Merrill and Strus also each scored in double digits.
Tyrese Maxey, leading the 76ers in assists, was a pain to the Cavs tonight. Finishing with 16 points, 11 assists, two rebounds and two steals, Maxey continues to lead this Sixers squad.
Kyle Lowry and Tobias Harris also played well, with 23 and 21 points, respectively.
There were a staggering 64 lead changes in this contest, with the largest lead being eight. With a total of 37 fouls and 23 turnovers, it was a back and forth affair with a high level of physicality.
With the playoffs quickly approaching, these games matter both for seeding and experience. Everyone played well. with seven Cavaliers and six 76ers scoring in double digits. The Cavs just played a little better tonight.
The Cavaliers (fourth), now 45-29, are one game behind the second place Milwaukee Bucks. The New York Knicks, losing to the San Antonio Spurs in overtime, should fall in the standings.
Every Cav played well tonight, and looked like a team that could succeed in the playoffs. That is, if everyone can stay healthy and sustain this level of play. Fortunately, even with the great performances, this team has shown that they can do even more.
The Cavaliers play the Denver Nuggets next this Sunday (March 31) at 3:30 PM in Denver. The Nuggets have the best record since the All-Star break, so it will be one to watch.
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Featured photo courtesy of NBA.com
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