The Cleveland Cavaliers did not get off on the right foot as they were completely dominated by the Chicago Bulls in a 131-95 preseason loss.
Good thing it is only preseason, because it would be an ugly start to the season if this game counted. The Cleveland Cavaliers were simply no match for the Chicago Bulls Tuesday, ending up on the wrong side of a 36-point loss.
As what has become the usual outcome the last few seasons, Cleveland struggled from the field, making just 35.7% (30-84) of their field goal attempts including 30.3% (10-33) from deep. In comparison, Chicago made 46.8% (51-109) and 43.2%(16-37) from three-point range. Even though it is just the first preseason game it does not appear much as changed for the Cavs when shooting the ball.
In addition to the disparity in shooting numbers, turnovers and assists also favored the Bulls. The Cavaliers turned the ball over 22 times to Chicago’s nine and finished with just 21 assists compared to the Bulls 36. Chicago actually had more assists than Cleveland had made field goals, far from an optimal outcome.
Last season the Cavaliers were not a strong offensive unit. Cleveland did not have anyone who could reliably knock down shots consistently and with the way their roster is currently constructed not much has changed.
Game notes
Collin Sexton led the Cavaliers in scoring with 14 as he usually does, but it was on an expected shooting performance. Sexton was 3-9 from the field (2-3 3PT) and made six of eight from the free throw line. This was a typical night from Sexton.
Lauri Markkanen was the second-highest scorer as he has 13 points off the bench, making four of 10 field goals and all four shots from the line.
Ricky Rubio added 10 points of his own as he managed to make just one of his six three-point attempts while assisting on six other baskets.
Evan Mobley was the only other Cavaliers starter to break double-digits, scoring 10 points on a 3-7 shooting night and a perfect 4-4 free throw performance.
