The Cleveland Cavaliers improved their record to 9-9 after a strong result in the second half. They secured a 122–107 victory over the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday night in Cleveland.
The first half was extremely sloppy for the Cavs, but they left with a different energy in the second half. They reduced losses and increased defense. They forced the Pistons to shoot 45% of the field and forced 22 turns.
Darius Garland was back on the starting lineup for the first game since January 2. Garland looked rusty and not completely healthy in the last three games, in which he left the bench. This is not what happened tonight, as he scored 14 points out of 6-11 on the field to go with four assists. He looked extremely confident and was able to hit his shot throughout the game.
Collin Sexton never seems to tire and puts constant pressure on the defense. He led the team in scoring with 29 points, in a very efficient 10-14. He also threw five rebounds and five assists.
Cavs coach JB Bickerstaff confuses Sexton and Garland’s minutes throughout the game, and this seems like the best course of action. Each of them can orchestrate the attack while being surrounded by snipers and a shot blocker.
Andre Drummond faced his former team and fought for the first three quarters, but when the fourth came, he was stuck. He managed a double-double with 23 points and 16 rebounds and was effective in defending with five steals.
Newcomers continue to make their presence felt and provide a much-needed spark from the bank. The bullfighting prince played a general game with 16 points, seven rebounds and five assists. While Jarrett Allen protected the ring all night and ended up with 10 points and two blocks. The Pistons didn’t challenge Allen on the edge as much as they did Drummond.
Next: The Cavs will head to Madison Square Garden and face the New York Knicks on Friday. The complaint is at 7:30 pm