Cavs Close Preseason With 118-100 Win, Shift Attention to Knicks Opener
cavs-close-preseason-with-118-100-win-shift-attention-to-knicks-opener
The Cleveland Cavaliers ended their exhibition schedule on a positive note, defeating the short-handed Detroit Pistons 118-100 at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
Head coach Kenny Atkinson approached the final tune-up as a dress rehearsal, trimming the rotation to 11 players and keeping most starters on the floor well into the fourth quarter. The priority, he said, was establishing rhythm and chemistry before the regular-season opener against the New York Knicks on Oct. 22 at Madison Square Garden.
Guard Donovan Mitchell led six Cavaliers in double figures, scoring 17 points in 29 minutes. Forwards Dean Wade and Jarrett Allen contributed 15 apiece, and De’Andre Hunter added 14 before exiting with a minor knee tweak. Guard Sam Merrill, making his first preseason appearance, and rookie Jaylon Tyson each scored 10. Reserve guard Lonzo Ball finished with nine points, nine assists and four rebounds.
Cleveland stormed out with 42 points in the first quarter, connecting on seven of its first 10 three-point attempts. Detroit narrowed the margin in the second period, but the Cavaliers regained control after halftime to secure their first preseason victory under Atkinson and finish with a 1-3 record.
The next time Cleveland takes the court, the games will count.
Source: Hoops Wire
