The Cleveland Cavaliers (8-0) showed just how tough they are, overcoming a late deficit to defeat the Milwaukee Bucks (1-6) again, 116-114 on November 5.
Darius Garland was the catalyst for the Cavaliers, erupting for 39 points, including a sizzling 7-of-11 from three-point range and directing the offense with 8 assists. Jarrett Allen continued his steady play, finishing with a well-rounded 14 points, 15 rebounds, and 6 assists while Evan Mobley made a major impact with 17 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 blocks.
With Giannis out, Damian Lillard took on a larger role, scoring 36 points and adding 7 assists. Bobby Portis, however, played with a fire in his belly, posting a monster game with 21 points, 18 rebounds, and 3 blocks. AJ Green rained down threes off the bench, hitting 7-of-9. But the Bucks still fell to the bottom of the standings.
Garlands’ Strong Night Ignited the Cavs
The Cavs opened the game hot from distance as they surged for a (24-12) advantage. Garland, who was held to 11 in their previous meeting, had 10 in that stretch. The Bucks, however, responded with a roar, hitting 5 consecutive three-pointers on a 19-6 run that briefly gave them the lead.
Mobley took control in the second, dropping 10 straight points to put his team back up (45-36). Garland and Allen sustained their offensive push, pulling ahead to (71-53). But Lillard, with a series of quick baskets, reduced the deficit to (60-71), keeping them alive.
The third quarter was a heated exchange, but the Bucks gradually closed the gap, trailing (78-86). Then they went on a powerful 13-3 run, putting themselves ahead before the final quarter. The Cavs who were red-hot in the first half only managed 16 allowing the Bucks to catch up.
The Bucks finally broke through, going on a 7-0 run and a Green three-pointer to take a (106-98) lead. Garland, however, sparked a counter-attack and lifted the Cavaliers back in front (108-106). Lillard answered with a pull-up and a long three-pointer, but Garland quickly responded with 5 straight, securing the win for the Cavaliers.
Up Next
The Cavaliers travel to New Orleans tomorrow while the Bucks face the Jazz on Friday.
