Cavs suffer first loss of the season 120-117 to the Celtics

The Cavs were missing four key wing players but still made it a close game late.

The short-handed Cleveland Cavaliers suffered their first loss of the season, a 120-117 nailbiter to the Boston Celtics in NBA Cup Group Play. The Cavs weathered injuries and poor shooting nights from their starting backcourt to make it a game late, but the Celtics shot the ball exceedingly well. That lethal combination was too much to overcome.

There were several key factors for the Cavs’ loss, but none rang larger than Darius Garland’s poor shooting performance. Arguably the best player for the Cavs this season, Garland finished 3-21 from the floor and failed to connect on any of his six three-point attempts. Garland had eight points and seven assists overall, but it could have been more.

Garland’s poor shooting night was not completely canceled out by Donovan Mitchell’s performance, but it was close. Mitchell had 35 points on 13-29 shooting, eight rebounds, and three assists. He certainly paced the offense on a night when the Cavs were playing catch-up, but it was not enough. At the very least, it was interesting late because of Mitchell.

Another bright spot for the Cavs was even Evan Mobley, who had a double-double in 38 minutes. He continued to look aggressive in the post, battling down to get position, and even stepped into a three in the 3rd quarter that helped to get the Cavs back into things.

Despite missing Isaac Okoro, Caris LeVert, Dean Wade, and Max Strus, the Cavs bench did their best to keep the team afloat. In particular, Craig Porter Jr. came through in a big way with 15 points, three rebounds, and three assists. Even more impactful was his three three-point makes. Ty Jerome added 10 points off the bench as well, and Georges Niang had 11 points with one three-point make. But the lack of wing depth was glaring against Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.

Despite the loss, the Cavs are still an incredible 15-1 and in good position in the Eastern Conference. Their first loss was bound to happen, and there is no shame in losing to the defending champions on their home court. The Cavs will look to regroup ahead of tomorrow’s matchup at home against the New Orleans Pelicans. Tip-off is at 7:30 p.m. EST at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.