With NBA Trade looming, on December 20, 2024, the Cleveland Cavaliers showcased their dominance with a commanding 124-101 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. This win improved the Cavaliers' impressive home record to 15-1 and extended their overall standing to a league-best 24-4.
Donovan Mitchell led the Cavaliers with 27 points, while Darius Garland contributed 16 points. Evan Mobley and Dean Wade each added 15 points, and Jarrett Allen secured a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds. The Cavaliers' offense was particularly potent from beyond the arc, sinking 20 three-pointers and shooting 42.6% from long range.
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The Bucks, fresh off their NBA Cup championship, struggled without star guard Damian Lillard, who was sidelined due to a right calf strain. Giannis Antetokounmpo led Milwaukee with 33 points and 14 rebounds, but the team's offense faltered, especially in the backcourt, where starting guards Andre Jackson Jr. and AJ Green combined for 0-of-9 shooting.
Cleveland set the tone early, leading 69-51 at halftime and extending their advantage to as much as 36 points in the fourth quarter. This victory marked the Cavaliers' third consecutive win and their seventh in the past eight games. Notably, Cleveland has now secured a 3-0 lead in the regular-season series against Milwaukee, with one matchup remaining on March 9 in Milwaukee.
The Cavaliers' balanced scoring and defensive prowess were evident throughout the game, as they capitalized on the Bucks' 20 turnovers, converting them into 22 points. Cleveland's bench also made significant contributions, with Ty Jerome adding 13 points.
This performance underscores the Cavaliers' status as a formidable contender in the league, while the Bucks will look to regroup and adjust, especially in anticipation of Lillard's return to bolster their offensive capabilities.
