Cleveland Cavaliers Extend Winning Streak to Six Games with 135-95 Victory over Milwaukee Bucks
Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, Cleveland, Ohio – February 1, 2023
The Cleveland Cavaliers continued their remarkable run of form, extending their winning streak to six games with a dominant 135-95 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse on Wednesday night. Despite missing key players Darius Garland and Evan Mobley due to injuries, the Cavs have shown incredible resilience and determination in their recent performances.
Cavs’ Balanced Attack Overwhelms Bucks
The Cavs displayed a balanced and efficient offensive attack, with several players contributing to the scoring. Donovan Mitchell, the All-Star guard, led the way with 31 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds. Center Jarrett Allen continued his hot streak, recording a double-double with 21 points and 13 rebounds, marking his 10th consecutive double-double, the best statistical stretch of his career.
Georges Niang, the sharpshooting forward, had a career night, pouring in 33 points, including 8-of-8 from the field and 4-of-4 from three-point range. His previous career high was 24 points. Caris LeVert added 19 points, while Isaac Okoro chipped in with 13 points.
Bucks Struggle Without Antetokounmpo
The Bucks, who entered the game with a three-game winning streak, were without their superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo due to a right shoulder contusion. His absence was a significant blow to the Bucks’ offense, as they struggled to find their rhythm and consistency.
Damian Lillard, who had 31 points in the Bucks’ previous meeting with the Cavs, was held to 17 points on 6-of-20 shooting. Jrue Holiday added 12 points, while Bobby Portis contributed 11 points.
Cavs Dominate from Start to Finish
The Cavs set the tone early, jumping out to a 20-2 lead in the first quarter, with Mitchell leading the charge. They maintained their advantage throughout the game, extending their lead to 66-41 at halftime and eventually securing a 40-point victory.
The Cavs’ defense was stifling, holding the Bucks to just 36.2% shooting from the field and 25% from three-point range. They forced 15 turnovers and turned them into 20 points.
Niang’s Career Night Highlights Cavs’ Dominance
Georges Niang’s career-high performance was a testament to the Cavs’ overall dominance. He was virtually unstoppable, hitting shots from all over the court and providing a spark off the bench. His 33 points were a major factor in the Cavs’ lopsided victory.
Cavs Improve to 24-15, Bucks Fall to 28-13
With the win, the Cavs improved their record to 24-15, while the Bucks dropped to 28-13. The Cavs have now won 11 of their last 13 games and are firmly in the playoff picture in the Eastern Conference.
Game Summary
First Quarter:
– Cavs jump out to a 20-2 lead, led by Donovan Mitchell’s 12 points.
– Jarrett Allen adds 6 points and 4 rebounds.
– Bucks shoot just 20% from the field.
Second Quarter:
– Cavs maintain their lead, extending it to 66-41 at halftime.
– Georges Niang catches fire, scoring 20 points on perfect shooting.
– Bucks struggle to find their rhythm, shooting 36.2% from the field.
Third Quarter:
– Cavs continue to dominate, building a 42-point lead at one point.
– Jarrett Allen and Isaac Okoro connect on an alley-oop play.
– Bucks call multiple timeouts to stop the Cavs’ momentum.
Fourth Quarter:
– Cavs cruise to a 135-95 victory.
– Georges Niang finishes with a career-high 33 points.
– Cavs shoot 53.6% from the field and 40% from three-point range.
Key Statistics
– Cavs: 53.6% FG, 40% 3PT, 135 PTS
– Bucks: 36.2% FG, 25% 3PT, 95 PTS
– Donovan Mitchell: 31 PTS, 7 AST, 5 REB
– Jarrett Allen: 21 PTS, 13 REB, 1 BLK
– Georges Niang: 33 PTS, 5 REB, 3 AST
– Damian Lillard: 17 PTS, 6 AST, 4 REB
– Jrue Holiday: 12 PTS, 5 AST, 3 REB