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Cavaliers Escape Hornets in Thrilling 13th Straight Win
The Cleveland Cavaliers extended their winning streak to a remarkable 13 games with a nail-biting 118-117 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on Friday night. Despite playing their third game in four nights, and a less-than-stellar performance, the Cavs managed to edge out a win against a surprisingly competitive Hornets team, fueled by Miles Bridges’ career-high 46 points.
A Hard-Fought Victory
The game was a rollercoaster. While the Cavaliers ultimately secured the win, their effort level was far from perfect. A late surge, however, propelled them to victory. The Hornets, led by Bridges' impressive scoring, held a nine-point lead with just over five minutes remaining. However, a clutch three-pointer by Evan Mobley tied the game with two minutes left, and key free throws from Donovan Mitchell put the Cavs in a position to win. A final putback layup from De’Andre Hunter sealed the deal, showcasing the team's depth and resilience under pressure.
Player Performances: A Mixed Bag
Donovan Mitchell's 24 points were crucial, but his 6-of-19 shooting and six missed free throws nearly cost the Cavs the game. Darius Garland had an inconsistent performance, while Evan Mobley's late-game three and Jarrett Allen's defensive contributions were vital. De'Andre Hunter, once again, proved his worth with clutch plays, and Sam Merrill provided a needed scoring boost off the bench. Other players like Max Strus and Dean Wade struggled to find their rhythm.
Looking Ahead
The Cavaliers' 13-game winning streak is a testament to their resilience and depth. While their performance against the Hornets wasn't their best, it showcased their ability to win even when facing adversity. This close victory provides valuable playoff experience as the Cavaliers head into the postseason as the Eastern Conference leaders. The 13-game winning streak is even more impressive considering they've scored 110+ points in every game during that run, a feat only matched by the 1986 Boston Celtics' 14-game streak, according to ESPN Research. This win sets the stage for an exciting playoff run for the team that already clinched their place in the postseason.
