The Cavs new backcourt duo was impressive in their preseason debut.
In case you have not heard yet there is a new backcourt pairing in Cleveland. The Cavs now feature Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell will be running the show after the offseason trade which saw the team acquire the now former Jazz guard. While it is only the preseason Garland and Mitchell gave everyone a preview of things to come.
The Cavs new backcourt combined for 28 points on 10-16 from the field including 4-6 from three-point range. Mitchell finished with five assists in one steal in 19 minutes while Garland assisted on four baskets in 15 minutes. This is exactly the reason why the Cavs made the decision to acquire Mitchell. Being able to score in this manner puts stress on the defense and takes pressure off of others to perform. This will help the development of Evan Mobley and allow him to take the second-year leap many expect.
Other Cavs of note in the contest include Kevin Love who made three of his six three-point attempts in 16 minutes while grabbing seven rebounds. Caris LeVert went 3-5 from the field for seven points while adding three assists, one rebound, and one block to his final line. Dean Wade played 23 minutes, going 3-5 from deep and 2-2 from the free throw line in addition to finishing with five rebounds, one assists, and one steal.
The Cavs did come up short in the end as Philadelphia was able to hang on and hand Cleveland a 113-112 loss. The important thing to remember is that it is about how the players perform on the court and the not final result. Cleveland will face Philadelphia at home Monday before finishing up against Atalanta and Orlando to close out the preseason.
