The Cleveland Cavaliers put on a dominant performance in front of a national television audience by convincingly defeating one of their main rivals in the Eastern Conference. Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley showcased their skills by contributing a combined total of 48 points.
In a clash between two top teams in the Eastern Conference, the Cavaliers took control from the beginning and never let go against the New York Knicks. Donovan Mitchell led the scoring with 27 points, while Evan Mobley chipped in with 21 points in a commanding 142-105 victory.
Only the Cavs looked elite, winning their sixth straight and improving the NBA’s best record to 46-10. Cleveland has won 34 games by double digits.
The New York Knicks, who were coming off a thrilling overtime win against Chicago the night before, had Jalen Brunson scoring 26 points and Karl-Anthony Towns adding 23 points in the losing effort against the Cavaliers.
New York couldn’t use a back-to-back as any excuse as the Cavs won in Brooklyn a night earlier. It was the Knicks’ most-lopsided loss this season.
Cleveland got a scare in the first half when All-Star guard Darius Garland hit his head on the floor while taking an awkward fall. Garland, who missed significant time last season with a broken jaw, stayed in the game.
The Cavs played most of the second half without center Jarrett Allen, who injured his right hand. X-rays were negative.
Takeaways
Knicks: New York was without versatile swingman Josh Hart, who missed his second straight game with a sore right knee.
Cavaliers: Dean Wade’s return from injury makes Cleveland as healthy as it has been in months. Wade gives coach Kenny Atkinson defensive depth and versatility.
Key moments
Mitchell went on a tear late in the first half, dropping 3-pointers in final 1:43 as Cleveland opened a 27-point halftime lead.
Key stat
Mitchell loves facing the Knicks. He came in averaging 30.7 points. 6.0 rebounds and 5.0 assists in his previous nine regular-season games against them.
Up next
It’s a big weekend for both teams as the Knicks are in Boston on Sunday. The Cavs host the top-scoring Memphis Grizzlies that night.
