CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Cavaliers overcame a sluggish first half Wednesday night, rallying from a 10-point halftime deficit to defeat the Washington Wizards, 121-111, at Rocket Arena. Cleveland outscored Washington 62-42 over the final two quarters to complete the comeback.
The Cavaliers struggled defensively in the opening half, allowing Washington to score 42 points in the first quarter and take a 69-59 lead into the break. The Wizards extended their advantage to 76-63 early in the third quarter, but Cleveland began chipping away behind James Harden, Donovan Mitchell, and a much better defensive effort.
The Cavaliers pulled within four when Jaylon Tyson knocked down a three-pointer with 3:48 remaining in the third. Sam Merrill followed with another three to cut Washington's lead to 87-86, and Cleveland eventually tied the game at 92 on two Mitchell free throws with 33.8 seconds remaining.
Cleveland carried that momentum into the fourth quarter, taking its first lead since the first quarter on an Evan Mobley dunk. After the teams traded baskets, Mobley connected on consecutive three-pointers to give the Cavaliers a 102-97 advantage with 9:22 remaining.
Washington briefly regained the lead, 105-104, on an AJ Dybantsa jumper with 6:16 left. However, Cleveland responded with a decisive 9-0 run, capped by a Mario Hezonja three-pointer and a Harden floater, to take a 113-105 lead with 3:28 remaining.
Mitchell and Peyton Watson added baskets down the stretch, pushing Cleveland's lead to 10 before Harden and Mobley secured the victory at the free-throw line.
The difference was Cleveland's defense, which allowed just 23 points in the third quarter and 19 in the fourth after surrendering 69 in the opening half. The Cavaliers also got timely contributions throughout their lineup, with Mobley's outside shooting and Watson's energy playing important roles in the comeback.
What's Next
The Cavaliers return to action Thursday night when they visit the Atlanta Hawks for an 8 p.m. ET matchup. Cleveland will look to carry its second-half defensive performance into the second game of the back-to-back.
