Cavaliers Remain Undefeated With Win Over Antetokounmpo-Less Bucks

Injured Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo watches from behind the bench in the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, Monday, Nov. 4, 2024, in Cleveland. (AP

The Cleveland Cavaliers continued their impressive start to the season by defeating the Milwaukee Bucks 116-114 in a closely contested game on Monday night. The win improved the Cavaliers' record to a perfect 8-0, a feat they had previously achieved only once before in 1976.

Star guard Darius Garland led the way for Cleveland with a career-high 39 points, including a clutch go-ahead 3-pointer in the final minute of the game. Rookie sensation Evan Mobley contributed 17 points, showcasing his versatility on both ends of the court.

The Cavaliers staged a late rally, outscoring the Bucks 18-8 in the final six minutes of the game. Center Jarrett Allen was instrumental in the victory, recording a double-double with 14 points and 15 rebounds, while also delivering a crucial block on Milwaukee's Damian Lillard in the closing seconds.

Darius Garland scores career-high 39 points, including game-winning 3-pointer.

Cavaliers improve to 8-0, matching a record set in 1976.

Evan Mobley impresses with 17 points and versatile play.

Cavaliers stage late rally, outscoring Bucks 18-8 in final minutes.

Jarrett Allen records double-double with 14 points and 15 rebounds.

Bucks fight valiantly behind Damian Lillard's 36 points.

Cavaliers defeat Bucks for the second time in three days.

Bucks suffer sixth consecutive loss without Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Cavaliers showcase depth and team chemistry in balanced approach.

Despite missing their superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo due to injury, the Bucks fought valiantly behind Lillard's 36 points and Bobby Portis' 21 points and 18 rebounds. However, a costly turnover by Lillard in the waning moments proved to be decisive in the outcome.

This victory marked the second time in three days that the Cavaliers had defeated the Bucks, with Donovan Mitchell hitting a game-winning shot in their previous matchup. Antetokounmpo's absence was felt by Milwaukee, as they suffered their sixth consecutive loss.

Looking ahead, the Bucks will aim to bounce back when they host the Utah Jazz on Thursday, while the Cavaliers will face the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday in their next challenge.

Key Takeaways

Bucks: Despite missing Antetokounmpo, the Bucks displayed resilience and determination in a challenging stretch of road games.

Cavaliers: Cleveland showcased their depth and ability to win games even without relying solely on Mitchell's scoring.

Key Moment

One of the pivotal moments in the game came in the second quarter when Evan Mobley showcased his all-around skills with a block, rebound, coast-to-coast dribble, and emphatic dunk, sparking a crucial run for the Cavaliers.

Key Stat

The Cavaliers became only the second team in NBA history to start 7-0 with every player averaging less than 30 minutes per game, a testament to their balanced approach and team chemistry.

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