Cavaliers defeat Nets 110-97

Cavs add another win, even if it was ugly.

It took the Cleveland Cavaliers three quarters to shake off the rust of All-Star weekend. But once they began rolling, they never looked back. A lackluster night ended on a high note as the Cavs thumped the Brooklyn Nets 110-97.

Jarrett Allen gets the first nod. A season-high 20 rebounds were a difference maker as the Cavs offense was stuck in the gutter for most of the game. Allen’s pursuit of the ball kept his team alive. His 16 points were also crucial as his attack on the rim finally pushed them into the lead during a third-quarter run.

The Cavs took charge behind a 20-2 run in the third. Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell both found their groove, with Garland scoring or assisting on nine straight points to spark the Cavalanche. Mitchell came off the bench and filled in right away with a layup and pull-up three-pointer.

Cleveland’s offensive process wasn’t as bad as the results. They generated clean looks from three despite shooting 11-39 (28%). It was a breath of fresh air when the Cavs pivoted away from the three-ball and began attacking the basket in the second half. This combined with their defensive effort is what turned the game in their favor.

Isaac Okoro made his return after missing the previous 14 games with a shoulder injury. His impact wasn’t super noticeable but he finished as a +16, behind only Sam Merrill (+26).

This win puts the Cavs at 45-10. They host the New York Knicks, who beat the Chicago Bulls in overtime Thursday, tomorrow night.