Cavaliers’ Rally Falls Short in 121-113 Loss to Short-Handed Thunder
cavaliers-comeback-stalls-against-thunder
OKLAHOMA CITY — The Cleveland Cavaliers erased a 23-point deficit but could not complete the comeback, falling 121-113 to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday night at Paycom Center.
Cleveland (36-22) saw its seven-game winning streak snapped after committing 17 turnovers, including several in the opening five minutes that fueled Oklahoma City’s fast start. The Thunder (43-14) knocked down 21 three-pointers and held on despite playing without injured stars Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams and Alex Caruso.
Key moments
• Oklahoma City raced to a 35-15 advantage midway through the first quarter, capitalizing on early Cavalier giveaways.
• Cleveland chipped away and grabbed its first lead late in the third period, but consecutive missed three-pointers by Evan Mobley and Donovan Mitchell in the final minute prevented a final push.
By the numbers
Cavaliers: Sam Merrill and James Harden each scored 20 points; Harden added nine assists. Donovan Mitchell also had 20 but missed all six three-point attempts. Jarrett Allen posted 11 points and 13 rebounds, while Evan Mobley had 15 points in 25 minutes.
Thunder: Isaiah Joe led with 22 points, Cason Wallace added 20, and rookie Chet Holmgren supplied 17. Former Cavalier Isaiah Hartenstein scored 13 on 6-for-6 shooting.
The clubs tied 44-44 on the glass, yet Oklahoma City’s timing on offensive rebounds helped seal the outcome.
What’s next
Cleveland continues its road trip with 24 regular-season games remaining, still integrating newcomers Harden, Dennis Schröder (11 points, seven assists) and Keon Ellis (nine points, strong defense). Oklahoma City, the reigning NBA champion, improves to 26-5 at home.
Source: Hoops Wire
