Cleveland Oh. – So, we knew the Cavs wouldn’t win them all. But some games are just right there. The Cavs were right there tonight as they fell to the Sixers 123-121. In a game that included just about everything, the Sixers came in and denied the Cavs their 10th straight win. Darius Garland missed a three to win it at the buzzer, and honestly, the fact they were even in a position to miss a game winning three shows they just turned it on too late.
The first half the Cavs didn’t ply the defense they have been accustomed to playing. Going into the half down 66-62, the Cavs gave up 58% shooting. Buddy Hield looked every bit worth the Sixers trading for him as he started the game 5/6 and ¾ from deep on his way to 24 points before fouling out. Hield also dished out 8 assist as he was the perfect secondary ball handler to Tyrese Maxey who showed why he was an All Star as he finished with 22 and 9 assist.
Donovan Mitchell scored a game high 36 points. He led a frantic comeback with two minutes to go. But after missing a driving layup, Mitchell got the rebound and kicked it out to Garland who just missed the last second three to end it.
Photo via Cleveland Cavaliers
Listen, this just wasn’t a great game. The Cavs looked like a team that knows this is All Star week and played like it much of the game. The silver lining is they fought back and gave themselves a chance. While there are no moral victories, the Cavs found a way to give themselves a chance. Coach Nick Nurse said at the beginning of the game, “This team is so hot… they just find a way.” He almost spoke it into existence.
The Cavs end the week on Valentine’s Day as they host the Chicago Bulls. They will come back from the break with a game at home against the Magic. I just want to stress, while this loss stings. And I get it, it sucks to lose the win streak… The Cavs are still really good. And they look to get back to winning ways on Wednesday!
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