The Cleveland Cavaliers had chance to come away with a win at home against the Indiana Pacers but fell short by a score of 113-104.
Cleveland was only down one point with just over 5 minutes to go and had a legitimate chance to win. Unfortunately the Pacers went on a 13-5 run to close the game and handed the Cavaliers their second straight loss in as many nights.
Both teams were relatively even in the game. Neither team had a distinct advantage in any one area. The game was just a bit closer than the final nine point differential would indicate. It seemed more like a 2-3 point game rather than one that was decided by almost double-digits.
Andre Drummond and Kevin Love lead Cavaliers scoring effort
This has been the case quite a few times since Andre Drummond was traded to the Cavs before the deadline. Drummond made 12-21 shots and all three free throw attempts en route to a 27-point scoring night. Drummond also had 13 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals, and 1 block.
Kevin Love was the Cavaliers second-highest scorer with 20. A large portion of Love’s scoring came from the free throw line, making 7 of 8 attempts. Love also had 12 rebounds , 7 assists, and 1 steal.
Collin Sexton scores in double-digits yet again
Collin Sexton finished 16 points on 7-16 from the field and 1-3 from deep. Young Bull is certainly on an impressive run when it comes to scoring 10 points or more in a game.
To find the last game in which Collin Sexton did not score in double-digits you would have to go back all the way to December 20th. Sexton has scored 10 or more points in 32 consecutive games. While at times he can struggle with efficiency, the Cavs just need points from Sexton at this moment in time.
Darius Garland and Kevin Porter Jr. struggle
Darius Garland and Kevin Porter Jr. both finished 5-13 in the game. The difference is Porter made two three-pointers and two free throws while Garland did not. Porter finished with 14 points while Garland had 10.
Sort of a rough shooting night for the Cavs rookies when they needed just a bit more to possibly come away with a win. These games will happen from time to time and the team just needs to use them as a learning experience.
