by The Cavs faced off against former head coach JB Bickerstaff yesterday in Cleveland. With Max Strus out for a few more weeks, Kenny Atkinson started Dean Wade at the small forward. This was not a mistake. With Wade’s 3&D (3-pointer and defense) ability, it was going to be an interesting matchup against Tim Hardaway, who also plays the role of 3&D for the Pistons.
The first quarter ended with Darius Garland leading the way with nine points. On the opposite side of the ball, young star Cade Cunningham also had nine points. Cleveland showcased some new offensive improvements from last year, starting with increased ball movement.
The half ended with the Cavs up 65-55. Cade Cunningham doubled his first quarter points to end up with 18 points, two rebounds, and three assists. Meanwhile, Jarrett Allen started to take over, finishing the half with 12 points and four rebounds.
The game ended with a Cleveland Cavalier win, and some nice highlights as well. The final score was 113-101. All five starters for the Cavs scored in double figures, and Allen recorded a double double with 17 points and 11 rebounds, plus a block and a steal. Dean Wade and Donovan Mitchell lead the team in points with 19 apiece. Darius Garland lead in assists with six, and on the defensive end, Evan Mobley with 6 stocks (steals and blocks).
Overall, the game was an enjoyable one to watch. Ball movement was there, the bench came to play, the offense was flowing, and the Cavs moved on to 2-0. Cleveland’s next opponent resides in Washington D.C. It should be a fun matchup with Kyle Kuzma vs Evan Mobley, and Jordan Poole vs Darius Garland.
Next Game – Cavs at Wizards 10/26
