The Cleveland Cavaliers made a statement with their commanding 112-84 victory over the Brooklyn Nets in their first game back from the All-Star break. Let's dive into the key takeaways from this matchup.
Winner: Jarrett Allen
Donovan Mitchell summed it up best when he said, “I’m running out of things to say about Jarrett Allen.” And it's true-Allen's performance continues to impress.
He's been a force on the boards, playing with an intensity and presence in the paint that’s hard to ignore. Starting off with a smooth elbow jumper, Allen showcased his versatility right from the get-go.
His aggressive play has been evident even before the James Harden acquisition, but Harden’s presence seems to have elevated Allen’s game further. With more opportunities coming his way, Allen has capitalized on them, notching a double-double in six of Cleveland’s last seven victories. He narrowly missed another with nine rebounds against the Wizards.
Loser: Second Chance Points
While Allen dominated the glass, it was a challenging night for the rest of the Cavaliers in terms of second-chance points. Charlotte managed to snag 23 offensive rebounds, converting them into 37 second-chance points. Typically, that kind of discrepancy spells trouble, but the Cavs' defense held strong when it mattered most.
The Hornets' strategy of launching 56 three-point attempts led to long rebounds, a known vulnerability for the Cavaliers. With limited backcourt rebounders to contest those 50/50 balls, it was an uphill battle.
However, when both Allen and Evan Mobley are on the floor, the Cavs excel in defensive rebounding. The drop-off is noticeable when one is absent, a reality the team has faced since the core four era began.
Winner: The Bench
The game had its tense moments, thanks in part to the Hornets' persistence. Yet, credit must be given to the Cavaliers' bench for repeatedly shifting the momentum.
Dennis Schroder and Keon Ellis were relentless, combining for five steals and disrupting the Hornets' passing lanes. Their energy and tenacity are invaluable assets.
Kenny Atkinson praised Ellis, noting his knack for unexpected deflections. Nae’Qwan Tomlin also deserves recognition for his aggressive play, even if it didn’t show up in the box score.
Jaylon Tyson brought similar grit. This Cavaliers bench has developed into one of the toughest units in the league, adding a layer of resilience that’s been missing in past seasons.
In conclusion, the Cavaliers showcased their depth and determination, setting a high bar for the rest of the season. With performances like this, they’re a team to watch closely.