Darius Garland scored 26 points, and Evan Mobley contributed with 22 points, 13 rebounds, and seven assists to lead the Cleveland Cavaliers to a commanding 126-99 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday night at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. With this triumph, the Cavaliers improved their astonishing record to 25 wins and just 4 losses, maintaining the best record in the NBA.
The Cavaliers were impressive right out of the gate, shooting 51.1% from the field and at one point, tied their season-high with 22 three-pointers, converting on 22 of 43 attempts. Garland was particularly sharp, sinking 6 of 7 from beyond the arc to help his team assert dominance over the visiting 76ers.
Donovan Mitchell added 19 points to the Cavaliers' score, with Georges Niang coming off the bench to chip in 13 points. The Cleveland team has also showcased its strength at home this season, now boasting an enviable 16-1 record.
On the other hand, the 76ers saw Tyrese Maxey lead his team with 27 points, including 13 during the third quarter. Paul George supported with 11 points, but the overall performance from Philadelphia was far from enough. Kelly Oubre Jr. scored just nine points, and the team faced struggles particularly during his time on the court, where they were outscored by 34 points.
The absence of Joel Embiid loomed large for the 76ers, as the former MVP watched from the sidelines due to a sinus fracture and knee soreness. This marks the second game Embiid has missed. He put forth strong efforts the previous night, scoring 34 points against the Charlotte Hornets.
Cavaliers head coach JB Bickerstaff praised the team's performance, particularly Mobley, who after starting with no points in the first quarter, exploded with 12 points in the second and added another 10 in the third. Mobley’s powerful slam dunk over KJ Martin and Andre Drummond highlighted his game, fueling the Cavaliers’ momentum and excitement from the home crowd.
“When you can impose your will,” Bickerstaff said, referring to Mobley’s aggressive style and development, “You’re just going to be more effective.” Mobley is currently averaging career-high stats at 18.4 points and 9.0 rebounds per game this season.
One of the key moments of the game was during the third quarter, when the Cavaliers opened with a 9-0 run. This included Mobley’s emphatic dunk, which sent waves of energy through the arena, showcasing the Cavaliers' unyielding spirit.
Although 76ers’ coach Nick Nurse began the season with confidence about his team's rotation, injuries have altered his plans significantly after rookie shooting guard Jared McCain underwent knee surgery this week. Nurse acknowledged these difficulties, stating, “When you lose McCain, all those plans go right out the window.”
Despite the adversity, the 76ers forged on, preparing for their upcoming game against the San Antonio Spurs on Monday. The Cavaliers, on the other hand, will look to maintain their momentum as they face the Utah Jazz the same evening.
The Cavaliers continue to lead the NBA with their three-point shooting, now boasting a .405 percentage. They have exemplified proficiency from beyond the arc, making 19 or more three-pointers for three consecutive games for the first time in franchise history.
This latest win against the 76ers not only emphasizes the Cavaliers' commanding presence in the league but also affirms their position as title contenders as they gear up for the remainder of the season.
