CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Cavaliers finally have their first win of the season, but it wasn't nearly as comfortable as it should have been. Cleveland defeated the Brooklyn Nets, 125-121, Saturday night at Rocket Arena after watching another commanding lead nearly disappear in the fourth quarter.
Just two days after blowing a 29-point advantage in a loss to Philadelphia, the Cavaliers appeared headed for a much easier night against Brooklyn. Cleveland led by 14 at halftime and stretched its advantage to 24 points early in the fourth quarter before the Nets mounted a furious comeback.
The Cavaliers took control late in the first half, closing the second quarter with a strong offensive run to carry a 68-54 lead into the locker room. Cleveland received contributions throughout its lineup, with Evan Mobley, Jarrett Allen, Donovan Mitchell, and several reserves helping build the advantage.
Brooklyn managed to stay within striking distance during the third quarter, but the Cavaliers continued answering its attempts to close the gap. Mitchell connected on a three-pointer in the closing seconds to give Cleveland a 96-80 lead entering the fourth.
The Cavaliers appeared ready to put the game away early in the final period. Jaylon Tyson knocked down consecutive three-pointers, Mitchell added another basket, and Cleveland pushed its lead to 104-80 with 9:29 remaining.
Brooklyn refused to go away, cutting into the deficit behind Egor Demin, Michael Porter Jr., and Julius Randle. Demin connected on three consecutive three-pointers during one stretch, while Cleveland struggled to slow the Nets' offense.
Brooklyn scored 41 points in the fourth quarter, steadily reducing what had looked like an insurmountable deficit. The Cavaliers still led 120-107 with just over two minutes remaining, but the Nets continued their charge.
A three-pointer from Chaney Johnson cut Cleveland's lead to six with 33 seconds left. After the Cavaliers committed a turnover on an offensive foul, Brooklyn had another opportunity to make things interesting. Cleveland managed to preserve the lead at the free-throw line, but Porter Jr. connected on another three-pointer with eight seconds remaining to make it 123-121.
Sam Merrill finally put the game away, making two free throws with 5.2 seconds remaining to restore Cleveland's four-point advantage. Brooklyn missed its final three-point attempt, allowing the Cavaliers to escape with the victory.
The win was an important response after Thursday's frustrating 114-106 loss to Philadelphia, but the finish also raised concerns. Cleveland has now allowed two opponents to mount major second-half comebacks in its first two games, and its inability to protect substantial leads is becoming an early issue.
The Cavaliers showed plenty of offensive firepower Saturday, with contributions throughout the lineup and several solid performances off the bench. However, allowing 41 fourth-quarter points and nearly surrendering another 20-plus-point lead is something Cleveland must address.
For now, the Cavaliers will take the win. After dropping their opener in disastrous fashion, getting into the win column was an important step, even if the finish was far more difficult than expected.
What's Next
Cleveland (1-1) remains at home Monday, October 26, when it hosts the Minnesota Timberwolves at Rocket Arena. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET, with the Cavaliers looking to build on their first victory and deliver a more complete four-quarter performance.
