Cavaliers storm back to top Bulls 128-122 after 19-point deficit
cavaliers-storm-back-to-top-bulls-128-122-after-19-point-deficit
The Cleveland Cavaliers erased a 19-point first-half hole and held off the Chicago Bulls 128-122 on Saturday night at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
Key performers
Donovan Mitchell scored only one basket before halftime but poured in 26 of his 29 points after the break, including 13 in the fourth quarter. DeAndre Hunter led Cleveland with 29 points, while Evan Mobley added 24 points, eight rebounds and five assists. Rookie Jaylon Tyson chipped in 17 points and knocked down the final free throws that sealed the victory.
How it happened
Chicago (6-3) controlled the early pace, taking advantage of frequent trips to the foul line to build a 19-point cushion. Cleveland (7-3) began its comeback late in the second quarter despite playing the second night of a back-to-back and resting starting guard Darius Garland for injury management.
The Cavaliers finally moved in front during a frantic fourth quarter, relying on one-on-one play from Hunter and Mobley while Mitchell delivered timely jumpers. Tyson’s free throws in the final seconds closed out the win.
The game had a postseason feel, with both teams in the penalty early in several quarters and momentum swinging repeatedly before Cleveland finished on top.
Source: Hoops Wire
