The Cleveland Cavaliers lost 101-122 to the Phoenix Suns, letting another important victory slip by them.
The Cavaliers looked very much alive in the first few minutes. They appeared prepared to contend and challenge Phoenix. On the second night of yet another back-to-back, Cleveland emerged victorious despite Donovan Mitchell’s persistent and dubious health as well as the absence of Dean Wade and Isaac Okoro. After a period in the second half of the first quarter during which the Cavaliers appeared to give over the ball on command and missed every chance to score, that momentum swiftly dissipated.
The Cavs have struggled with injuries all season, and things haven’t gotten any better. But that’s a useless excuse against the Suns. In just 35 games during their inaugural season together, the Suns’ big three—Devin Booker, Bradley Beal, and Kevin Durant—have been available. Once the Cavaliers lost momentum, they dug themselves a grave. After yet another night of a lackluster offensive display and irritating rotation decisions made by head coach J.B. Bickerstaff, the Cavaliers are beginning to resemble last year’s playoff disaster.
Cleveland has been the Eastern Conference’s most puzzling playoff opponent this season. Following a 13–12 start to the season, the Cavaliers, without two of their greatest players, went on an incredible run to secure the second seed in the East.
Amid countless injuries, the Cavs have built another impressive season with a noticeably greater perimeter presence and willing mentality from every member of the squad. Still, Cleveland repeatedly allows themselves to be easily beaten in one critical statistic. Throughout this year, the Cavaliers have allowed an average of 10.2 offensive rebounds for their opponent. While the Cavs have made significant strides in their toughness, their stifling defense is too often in vain when they are battered with continued extra chances.
