The Cavaliers looked like a machine in overwhelming Minnesota 128 to 107. The key seems to be a reenergized Evan Mobley. Mobley has been on fire the last few games. The ultra talented big man can do what few others can. By letting him cook, the Cavs offense looks unstoppable. Donovan Mitchell added 23 as the Cavs scored the first 16 points of the game and never looked back.
New addition DeAndre Hunter looked at home in a Cleveland uniform. Starting in place of a injuried Max Strus, Hunter scored 12 in 23 minutes. The versatile Hunter will be key in getting past the Celtics or Bucks. He can lock down the opponent’s best player. Hunter can start or come off the bench. In the chess match that is modern NBA coaching, DeAndre Hunter has unlocked a number of possibilities for Coach Kenny Atkinson and the Cavs.
The Cavalier defense was shining. Minnesota’s first 5 points were on free throws. Anthony Edwards three pointer with 2:54 left in the first quarter was the first made shot for the Timberwolves. Cleveland was switching on defense about as fast as Minnesota was passing on offense. This bodes well for the Cavs playoff run.
The Cavs are 21-3 when Mobley scores 20. Increasing his role in the offense might be the key to a deep playoff run. Mobley is really stepping it up. The only weakness the Cavs have is not enough shooting. A aggressive Mobley can solve that weakness on his own.
Cleveland is 25-4 at home. This is a great sign. One of the keys to deep playoff runs is to defend your home court. The Cavs have been unbeatable at home. This trend has to continue if we want a shiny trophy at the end of the season.
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