The Cleveland Cavaliers and San Antonio Spurs had one thing in common when they squared off tonight. They were both feeling bruises from a recent beatdown at the hands of the Golden State Warriors. For the “other two teams” that are considered favorite to have a real chance at the title, this was a chance at redemption, and it was Cleveland who walked off victorious.
In fact, the Cavaliers gave the Spurs their worst stomping since the Warriors, winning 117-103 in a game that wasn’t that close. It was telling, and probably as big a win as Cleveland has all year. The Cavaliers had dropped both games to the Warriors, both their games to the Chicago Bulls and their first game to the Spurs.
The Cavaliers were playing more uptempo than they have in the past, and doubled up the Spurs 14-7 in fastbreak points. Kevin Love was on fire most of the night and had more of a green light, scoring 21 points on 13 shots and grabbing 11 boards. LeBron James had 29 points, seven assists and five rebounds. Kyrie Irving dropped 21 points and six assists.
It was the second game in a row the trio topped 70 combined points.
For the Spurs, they obviously miss the presence of Tim Duncan. LaMarcus Aldridge was caught out of position on multiple occasions and looked nearly as bad defensively as he did in the Golden State Game.
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http://www.paulfrantizek.com/ Paul Frantizek