Cavaliers seize quick 5–1 advantage to start Eastern Semifinal opener in Detroit
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DETROIT — The Cleveland Cavaliers jumped out to a 5–1 lead with 10:18 remaining in the first quarter of Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday night.
Guard Donovan Mitchell delivered the early highlight, burying a 26-foot three-pointer off a pass from James Harden at the 10:36 mark. Forward Evan Mobley added Cleveland’s first basket and collected two rebounds — one on each end — during the opening sequence.
Through the first two minutes, the Cavaliers were 2-for-4 from the field (50%) and 1-for-1 from beyond the arc, while Detroit missed its only shot attempt. Cleveland also held a 3–0 edge on the glass and had not committed a turnover.
The Pistons entered the series with the East’s best record at 60-22, including 31-9 at Little Caesars Arena. Cleveland finished the regular season 52-30 and 25-16 on the road. Sportsbooks listed Detroit as a 3.5-point favorite with an over/under of 217.5 shortly before tip-off.
Detroit guard Kevin Huerter (thigh) remained sidelined but is expected to be evaluated again ahead of Game 2, which will also be played in Detroit before the best-of-seven shifts to Cleveland.
Source: ESPN
