NBA Playoffs: Cavaliers Take 2-0 Lead
The Cleveland Cavaliers have taken a 2-0 lead in their Eastern Conference first-round series against the Miami Heat, thanks to a 121-112 victory on Wednesday night. Donovan Mitchell scored 30 points, including 17 in the fourth quarter, to lead the Cavaliers to the win.
Strong Performance by Mitchell
Mitchell, who also had six rebounds and six assists, put the game on his shoulders in the fourth quarter, scoring Cleveland’s next eight points, including a pair of 3-pointers, during an 8-2 run to give them some breathing room. His performance was crucial in holding off a second-half charge by Miami.
Record-Breaking 3-Pointers
The top-seeded Cavaliers set an NBA playoff record with 11 3-pointers in the second quarter and had 22 for the game. This impressive display of shooting helped the Cavaliers build a significant lead, but they had to work hard to maintain it.
Heat’s Comeback Attempt
The Cavaliers had a 19-point lead with under 3 minutes remaining in the third quarter before the Heat made their run to get within 105-103 lead with 3:11 left. Tyler Herro scored 33 points for Miami, which hosts Game 3 on Saturday afternoon. The Heat’s comeback attempt was led by Herro, Davion Mitchell, and Nikola Jovic, who combined for 25 points during a 25-8 run.
Key Contributions
Evan Mobley had 20 points and Darius Garland 19 for the Cavaliers. Max Strus and Sam Merrill also made significant contributions, each hitting two 3-pointers during a 17-4 run that helped the Cavaliers take control of the game.
Game Summary
The game was closely contested in the early stages, with Miami taking a 16-7 lead before the Cavs rallied and went up 25-24 at the end of the first quarter. De’Andre Hunter’s dunk with 2:33 remaining in the third quarter gave the Cavaliers a 93-74 advantage, but the Heat refused to give up, making a late charge to get within two points.
Conclusion
The Cavaliers’ 2-0 lead in the series gives them a significant advantage, but the Heat will look to bounce back in Game 3 on Saturday. With the series shifting to Miami, the Heat will aim to use their home-court advantage to get back into the series.
FAQs
- What is the current state of the series? The Cleveland Cavaliers lead the series 2-0.
- Who was the top scorer for the Cavaliers? Donovan Mitchell scored 30 points.
- What is the schedule for the next game? Game 3 will be played on Saturday afternoon in Miami.
- Can the Heat still come back in the series? Yes, the series is not over yet, and the Heat can still bounce back with a win in Game 3.
