The Cleveland Cavaliers survived a scare against the Brooklyn Nets, coming through late in a 114-107 victory.
Even though the Brooklyn Nets were without Kevin Durant, they were not going to go away easy and the Cleveland Cavaliers were ready for the challenge. As their six-point half-time lead was erased in the 3rd quarter, the Cavs were facing the prospect of not closing out against one of the better teams in the NBA. Cleveland battled with Brooklyn and the game was tied as late as 3:43 in the 4th, but were able to go on a 12-2 run capped off by an Isaac Okoro steal and dunk after an off target pass from James Harden to Kyrie Irving to secure the win.
The paint was the key for the Cavaliers as they held a 54-34 advantage over the Nets down low. While Cleveland faced some challenges in that area as the game progressed, they were still able to play to their strengths as Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley combined for 26 points. When Allen and Mobley are able to operate close to the basket it makes a difference for everyone else on the Cavs.
Darius Garland led the way for the Cavaliers with 22 points, 12 assists, six rebounds, and two steals. Garland continues to be a rising star in this league as he was able to battle and come out on top against the duo of Irving and Harden. Over the last two games Garland has 30 assists, the only Cavs player besides LeBron James to do so over the last 20 seasons.
