If the Cavaliers missed their start to the season, it was mainly because they were missing Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen. But the two All-Stars are back, and last night, they played an essential role in the victory against the Warriors. The first since Christmas 2016 against Golden State.
A benchmark success since Stephen Curry’s teammates had five wins in a row, but also in the manner. We saw some very good Cleveland, and Donovan Mitchell’s partners (31 points) have the potential to establish themselves permanently in the Top 4 of their conference.
“Darius makes it easier for everyone” testifies Mitchell. “He’s like that… We missed him in the first matches, and it’s good to see him back with us.”
The Mobley-Allen pair locks the racket
Author of 24 points and 7 assists, Garland brings rhythm, creation, and above all he allows Mitchell to concentrate on scoring. Same thing for Jarrett Allen, whose presence frees Evan Mobley. The two formed an almost insurmountable barrier this night, whether through their wingspan or their ability to lock in the rebound.
“Both of them just did a phenomenal job with their ability to go the extra mile.” underlines JB Bickerstaff. “Evan obviously, but also Jarrett, but the rebounds didn’t go their way. They fought to take them. They knew we needed it. Our defense begins and ends with our interiors. We know, both are there to protect the racket, to protect their teammates, but also to help us lock down positions. »
“If we share the ball, given the talent we have on the pitch, we will not be easy to beat”
With a complete group and a benchmark victory, the Cavaliers can finally launch their season, and their coach insists on the defensive aspect and the collective. Even if there are very strong individuals, Cleveland will only be able to aim higher through its collective.
“We are a team and the only thing that matters to us is our collective”insists Bickerstaff. “We are not a bunch of individuals who just got together in the locker room. All we preach to our guys, and all they’ve bought into, is do things for each other, care about each other, play the game with each other. If we share the ball, given the talent we have on the pitch, we won’t be easy to beat. »
