Cavs defeat Pelicans with second half comeback; three takeaways

3. Third quarter run

At halftime, the Cavs were down, 57-47.

Entering the fourth quarter, however, they held on to an 80-79 lead, a pretty big deal considering they are undefeated this year when leading after the third quarter.

Over the last six minutes of the third, they went on a 19-8 run, including eight points just from Jordan Clarkson. The Cavs were playing downhill in transition during the frame, and ultimately, that was fueled by their defense.

“I think we got a few stops, we could run, we got easy baskets,” Jose Calderon said after the game. “I think that changed the momentum. I think it was about us just trying to make the extra effort to make it a little more difficult (for them) out there.”

The Cavs’ run was even more impressive considering George Hill, who started out the quarter with eight quick points, was forced to leave the game with an ankle injury. Per the team, he will be re-evaluated in the morning.

“It doesn’t matter who’s out,” Kevin Love said. “We just have guys that are able to step up, play big minutes, log big minutes and in any case or situation, guys hit big shots and make big plays. So tonight was no different.”

Love said that despite Hill’s injury, the Cavs fought back and have guys ready to step up. pic.twitter.com/BZqvlDrWop

— Ashley Bastock (@AshleyBastock42) March 31, 2018

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