The Cavaliers are having fun with the Lakers, who are too weak on defense

The beginning of the first quarter is a series of “runs”: Cleveland opens the game with a 7-0 run, Los Angeles responds with a 12-0 run. The Cavaliers then responded with an 8-0 run. At the same time, Luka Dončić injured his left ankle. He leaves his teammates for a few minutes (24-28).

Before returning in the second quarter. Certainly reduced, the Slovenian still managed to score baskets and pass. The problem is that on the other hand, Los Angeles’ defense is showing signs of weakness. It’s all too easy for the Cavaliers to outrun their opponent and go to the rim. However, nothing was done at the break (57-55).

Everything will be decided in the third quarter, where the Lakers are sinking on defense. Kenny Atkinson’s troops are having fun and scoring baskets. The game is over (99-77), offers an uninteresting last quarter and a big victory for the home team (129-99).

WHAT TO REMEMBER

– Weak defense of the Lakers. Californians’ concerns on defense they are neither new nor unknown. They persist and no one seems to find a solution. The front row, as is often the case, left too much space and was overrun in wide spaces. In the third quarter alone, the Cavaliers scored 42 points with 68% shooting and lost only two balls… It is impossible to win a match in these conditions, especially when the leaders are smaller.

– Luka Doncic downplayed, followed by LeBron James. Was the “King” also touched by the recognition of the Cavaliers doc there are whispers of possible reunions ? Anyway, tearfully watching video of the first quarter, he didn’t quite get into his game, finishing with just 11 points on 3/10 shooting, with 6 turnovers. The former Dallas star played his part with 29 points, but was clearly hampered by an injury in the first quarter. This duo would have to be at another level to make up for that kind of defensive generosity.

– Fifth straight win for Cleveland. This big, logical and quiet success is the fifth in a row for Donovan Mitchell and his company, who are once again completely in the race for the podium in the East, with only one victory behind the Knicks, currently second in the conference.

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How to read statistics? Min = Minute; Shots = Shots Successful / Shots Attempted; 3 points = 3 points / attempt 3 points; LF = free throws made / free throws attempted; O = offensive rebound; D=defensive jump; T = Total number of jumps; Pd = assists; Fte: Personal mistakes; Int = intercepts; Bp = lost balls; Ct: Against; +/- = point difference when the player is on the court; Points = Points; Rating: player rating calculated based on positive actions – negative actions.