SteemSports Presenter:@hogan22
SteemSports Editor:@scottybuckets
Lebron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers traveled to Oklahoma City to battle Russell Westbrook and the Thunder on Tuesday night. Cleveland has a completely different roster than the last time they faced the Thunder and have won both games they have played, which have been on the road, with their new look, holding opponents to 107 and 99 points. That is a vast improvement from their abysmal defense that they were playing since Christmas.
Both teams came out of the gates with a purpose, not allowing either to claim more than a seven-point lead. Cleveland’s JR Smith found the hot hand early with 12 points, off of four three pointers, in the opening frame, helping the Cavs keep pace with the home team, tying the game at 28 at the end of one.
The game continued to stay close until midway through the second quarter where the Cavs outscored the Thunder 26-15 to take an eleven-point lead, ending the quarter with a 62-57 lead. Cleveland maintained the lead building it back to eleven, midway through the third quarter until Oklahoma City sparked an 11-0 run, tying the game at 81.
The Cavs took advantage of the Thunder’s lack of offense to start the fourth quarter with 9-0 run to take an eleven-point lead as newcomers, Jordan Clarkson, Rodrick Hood, and Larry Nance, Jr. all made buckets during the run. Oklahoma City was not able to come within more than five points of the Cavs for the remainder of the game as the Cavs won their fourth straight game 120-112.
Lebron James led all scores with 37 points and added eight assists and rebounds. JR Smith added 18 points on six threes. The Thunder were not able to keep pace as four players scored over 20 points, led by Paul George’s 25 points.
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This is just Cavs from prior to Lebron's move to Miami where he started the "Big Three" trend. The trade might've helped long term, but for this season the only way the Cavs make it to the finals is if Lebron scores 30+ and is at or close to a triple double.
I still don't think this new Cavs team can beat the Raptors (if Lowry / DeRozan don't choke) or the Celtics. Even if they could, no chance against the Warriors or Rockets in a final.
Good
As a Celtics fan....I’m pretty worried. Not so much about getting whacked the other day. I know the Celts are sputtering a bit and need to get healthy, get some rest and recharge during the break.
I’m worried that the Cavs will actually keep up this energy and build off it. If they do?.....there’s no way in hell that Boston or Toronto beat them. Too many issues guarding LeBron. We tried 4-5 different guys with no real difference. He gets where he wants to go and draws fouls or finishes. It’s kinda not fair. Lol.
Maybe this is a fluke. I’ll hang my hat on that for awhile. : )
Wow nice movement, @steemports please vote me
Cleveland are now Improving compared to last year.... Thanks for the news and thanks for keeping us updated
I like it