The Cleveland Cavaliers achieved a remarkable milestone by defeating the Charlotte Hornets 128-114 on Sunday night, marking their fifteenth consecutive victory. This impressive run has placed them alongside the 1993-94 Houston Rockets and the 1948-49 Washington Capitols as the only teams in NBA history to start a season with a perfect 15-0 record. Only the 2015-16 Golden State Warriors have recorded more wins at the start of a season.
Despite missing key player Donovan Mitchell, the Cavaliers pulled through in a tense fourth quarter, with Darius Garland and Ty Jerome stepping up to secure the win. Their contributions were crucial, particularly in the face of ongoing concerns regarding the team’s defensive performance. Cleveland’s defense has struggled, registering a defensive rating of 112 over the past week, placing them 15th in the league during that timeframe. Opponents have also been capitalizing on their three-point shooting, hitting 39% of their attempts.
Head coach Kenny Atkinson has expressed dissatisfaction with the team’s recent defensive displays, emphasizing the need for improvement in contesting shots, especially from beyond the arc. Although the Cavaliers displayed a solid offensive game by scoring 72 points in the first half alone—achieving over 70 points in half for the sixth time this season—their defensive lapses could be a concern as they prepare to face tougher opponents.
On the offensive end, the Cavaliers continue to thrive, showcasing their shooting prowess by converting 43.3% of their three-point attempts. Jerome and Georges Niang were particularly effective, combining for seven three-pointers. The team effectively utilized their big men, Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley, who both had significant contributions on offense and the boards, which was pivotal in overcoming the Hornets.
Garland’s playmaking and control over the game were evident as he tallied 25 points and 12 assists, while Jerome added 24 points and 8 assists. However, the team sustained injuries to Isaac Okoro and Dean Wade due to ankle sprains, which could pose challenges in their upcoming matchup against the Boston Celtics.
As the Cavaliers continue their historic streak, they will need to bolster their defense to maintain their winning momentum and counter strong rivals like the Celtics. The hope is that the team can address these defensive issues while continuing to leverage their explosive offensive capabilities.
In summary, while the Cavaliers celebrate their undefeated start, the focus will need to shift toward strengthening their defense in preparation for upcoming games. With talented players stepping up and effective plays being executed, there is reason to remain optimistic as the season progresses.