Cavaliers topple Timberwolves 123-106
The Cleveland Cavaliers took a trip to Minnesota and took care of business at the Target Center, defeating the Timberwolves 123-106.
From the start it was clear the Cleveland Cavaliers were going to cruise to a victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Cavs built an early 14 point lead at the end of the 1st quarter and continued to create separation between themselves and the T’Wolves. Eventually Cleveland would hold a 33 point lead in the contest as they proceeded to continue their scoring barrage into the second half and claim the inevitable double-digit victory.
It was one of the better shooting nights for the Cavaliers, conversing 46 of their 85 field goal attempts, good for 54.1%. 13 of their made field goals were of the three-point variety and the Cavs also went 18-22 at the free throw line. Only two of their made two-point field goals did not come in the paint, as Cleveland scored 62 points in that area compared to Minnesota’s 42. This differential certainly played a factor in the final outcome.
Leading the way for the Cavaliers was Jarrett Allen, finishing with an easy 21 points and 10 rebounds in addition to his two blocks, two assists, and one steal on the night. This was the ninth double-double in 10 games for Allen as he has proven to be quite a force this season.
It was also a productive night for Kevin Love off the bench, scoring 18 points and grabbing 13 boards in 23 minutes. Love made all seven free throws and went 3-7 from deep. Love has shown that he can be a valuable player off the bench at times this season.
Perhaps one of the more shocking shooting performances came from Lauri Markkanen. Markkanen went 4-5 from three-point range and 7-8 overall as he scored 19 points in 22 minutes.
