Author: John Blake (Page 5 of 68)

The Cavaliers quickly silenced all the critics about their poor field goal and free throw shooting, at least for one night. The offense played like they’re capable of, even against a usually solid Bulls defense, as they routed Chicago 113-94.

The Cavs’ bench bunch played a key role in the victory. Donyell Marshall and Anderson Varejao each scored 15 and Sasha Pavlovic exploded for 16 points as the bench scored 56 points. The Cavs built an early 30-18 lead as the first quarter came to a close and then cruised from that point. LeBron finished with a mere 19 points but had 12 assists as the team did a much better job of working the offense and spreading ball around. We’ll be in much better shape if we can get consistent play from our bench.

In addition, rookie Shannon Brown scored his first two points of his NBA career on a layup in garbage time.

The sweet start by the Cavaliers has suddenly turned sour. With their latest 104-95 overtime loss to the Atlanta Hawks, their record falls to 2-2 on the young season. With the Cavs up two at the end of regulation, a LeBron James missed free throw allowed Tyronn Lue to go the length of the court to tie it and send it to overtime, where Joe Johnson scored seven of his 25 points.

LeBron finished with 34 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists and Drew Gooden continued his solid season with 21 points and 14 rebounds.

The Cavaliers led by as much as 10 but a 62% average from the free throw line and a 36% average from the field doomed the Wine and Gold. Offensively, they often looked sluggish and unorganized. Whatever momentum they had after the San Antonio game has officially disappeared. Perhaps they think they’re just going to waltz into games, go through the motions, and come out with a win. It’s not that easy. I don’t know if the Cavs think they’re better than they are right now or what, but some sense of urgency needs to be developed, especially towards the end of games.

The Cavaliers finally were able to get it done in San Antonio. It had been eighteen years since they last won on the road against the Spurs but edged them out 88-81 Friday night. LeBron led with 35 points, 10 rebounds, and four assists. Tim Duncan led the Spurs with 25 points and 12 rebounds.

It’s only been two games, but the Cavs are already showing signs of a championship-caliber team. They go into a tough environment against one of the best teams in the league and come out winners. Winning on the road is essential if you want to be a team that advances far in the postseason. So far, we’re proving that we can hang with the elite teams, home or away.