The Cleveland Cavaliers continued their dominant run with a compelling 112-100 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Sunday night, extending their winning streak to 14 games. The victory not only solidified their position among the league’s elite, but also wiped out the Bucks in their first season since the 2008-2009 season when LeBron James led the franchise.
A balanced attack burns Cleveland’s victory
Despite filming just 44.3% off the field, the Cavaliers relied on their depth and defense to secure the victory. Eight Cavaliers scored at least nine points, with Max Strath leading the team with 17 points and nine rebounds.
Donovan Mitchell contributed 15 points, while Evan Mobley and Darius Garland added 13 points each. Jarrett Allen chipped with 11 points. The Cavaliers bench also played a key role, with Dean Wade, Ty Jerome and Sam Merrill scoring nine points.
On the defense, Cleveland kept Milwaukee at 42.9% fire and limited boundary attacks.
Giannis’ efforts are not enough for Milwaukee
Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with game-high 30 points and nine rebounds, but his efforts went to waste as Milwaukee struggled to produce consistent crime. Damien Lillard finished with 22 points and Kyle Kuzma added 14 points, but the team couldn’t find a rhythm beyond the star.
The Bucks started strong, keeping the game competitive in the first quarter, chasing just 34-32 after filming 56.5% off the field. However, Cleveland pulled away before halftime, leading a 62-52 lead to a break behind Strath’s 14 points.
Cavs maintain control later
Milwaukee attempted a comeback in the third quarter. The AntetoCompo and Lillard were combined at 14 points. However, the Cavaliers remained calm and never allowed the lead to soaking under four points, entering 84-77 in the fourth quarter.
During the final period, Cleveland showed off its offensive efficiency, shooting 52.6% off the field. Dean Wade and Isaac Okoro combined 11 key points from the bench to help the Cavaliers close the game comfortably.
The Cavaliers’ Unparalleled Consistency
The victory marks Cleveland’s 54th victory of the season against just 10 losses. In the last 14 games, they led the league with an offensive rating of 123.3 and ranked fourth in defensive rating at 109.3.
The Cavaliers’ domination continues to make them a terrifying force as they approach the playoffs. The ability to win with balanced scoring and elite defense sets them apart as one of the top candidates in the Eastern Conference.
Cleveland will try to extend the streak and maintain momentum in upcoming games, but Milwaukee will aim to regroup and bounce after suffering second straight losses.
Historical achievements: The Cavaliers join the elite company
The team will win two independent 14 or more games in the same season.
- 1946-47 Capitol
- 1970-$71
- 1996-97 Jazz
- 1999-00 Lakers
- 2006-07 Suns
- 2017-18 Rocket
- …And now, the 2024-25 Cavaliers
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