The Cleveland Cavaliers were able to overcome a slow start to grab a relatively stress-free 118-106 win over the Milwaukee Bucks. Donovan Mitchell led the charge with a game-high 37 points.
The Bucks opened
the game on a 12-2 run and had a 14-point advantage midway through the first quarter. The Cavaliers were simply stuck in the mud at the start of the game.
Fortunately for them, their best player wasn’t. Mitchell provided 14 first-quarter points to keep Cleveland within shouting distance. They ended the first quarter down only seven points.
An unconventional lineup featuring the duo of Thomas Bryant and Nae’Qwan Tomlin helped the Cavaliers turn the momentum at the start of the second. Bryant immediately provided a lift with his infectious energy, which included pushing Gary Trent Jr. into the third row on a Mitchell drive.
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Bryant picked up a technical on the play, but galvanized a team that was looking for a spark.
The Cavaliers didn’t look back from there. They won the next three quarters and coasted to a double-digit win.
The Cavaliers benefited from Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo missing the second half with a strained groin. The MVP candidate was impressive in the 13 minutes he was on the court. He finished with 14 points, five rebounds, and four assists. This game doesn’t unfold as it does if Giannis is available in the second half.
Mitchell was special all game. He was easily the best player on the court as he finished with 37 points on 14-22 shooting with seven assists and five rebounds.
Sam Merrill was impressive. He went 6-9 from three en route to a 20-point and five-rebound performance. Evan Mobley added 14 points on 4-9 shooting with six assists and six rebounds.
Ryan Rollins led the Bucks with a team-high 24 points and five assists.
The win brings the Cavs to 10-5. That’s impressive for a team that hasn’t come close to hitting its stride yet. They’ll host the 9-3 Houston Rockets on Wednesday evening.
