by After getting back into the series with a Game 3 win at home, the Cleveland Cavaliers now head into Game 4 with a chance to even things up before heading back to Detroit. The Cavs looked great in their 116-109 Game 3 win, especially defensively, but the Detroit Pistons still lead the series 2-1. The pressure remains high for the Cavs heading into tonight’s game.
The Cavs did enough in Game 3 to slow down Detroit offensively. Donovan Mitchell finished with 35 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, showing what it takes to be the team leader. But if the Cavs want to leave home with the series tied, they will need another complete effort on both ends of the floor.
There are three keys that the Cavs need to focus on in Game 4.
- Knock Down Shots
The Cavs survived poor three-point shooting in Game 3, but that is not something the team can repeat.
The Cavs finished just 12-32 from the 3-point line, and many players missed open looks throughout the game. Max Strus and Sam Merrill each hit one three, while Mitchell connected on only two, despite carrying the offense for long stretches. The Cavs’ role players have to help stretch the floor consistently tonight.
The Pistons will continue to pack the paint and make things difficult around the rim, especially when Mitchell and James Harden attack. If the Cavs hit early threes and force the Pistons to respect the perimeter more, it opens everything up offensively.
- Keep Cade Cunningham Uncomfortable
Even in Detroit’s loss, Cade Cunningham still found ways to make a difference in the game. He finished Game 3 with a triple-double consisting of 27 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists. The Cavs did force him into 8 turnovers, which likely ended up being the biggest reason they were able to finish the game.
Cleveland needs to continue making things difficult for Cunningham defensively. That means showing help at the right times, being physical on drives, and forcing him into contested shots instead of giving him easy looks.
Cade attempted 27 shots in Game 3, and while he still scored, Cleveland did a better job making him work for everything. If the Cavs can continue forcing turnovers and limiting his efficiency, it takes a lot of pressure off the rest of the defense
- Take Advantage of Being At Home
One thing that stood out in Cleveland’s Game 3 win was the energy level. The Cavs played with more urgency defensively, attacked loose balls, and looked more aggressive overall compared to the first two games in Detroit.
Players like Jarrett Allen, Evan Mobley, and Dean Wade will be important defensively, especially against Detroit’s physical frontcourt. If the Cavs control the pace early, the crowd could become a major factor.
The Cavs need to match Detroit’s toughness and stay composed when momentum swings happen.
With the series sitting at 2-1, Game 4 feels huge for both teams. A Cavs win would completely reset the matchup heading back to Detroit, while a Pistons win would put the Cavs in a difficult position the rest of the way.
