Despite the absences of Darius Garland and Caris LeVert, this setback in Detroit is a loss that stains for the Cavaliers. Losing to one of the worst teams in the league is never glorious, and it’s a third straight loss for JB Bickerstaff’s troops.
For the Nuggets, however, the trip to Sacramento went well. Nikola Jokic was still brilliant and Denver, with this fourth straight victory, continues its momentum before the All-Star Game.
Brooklyn–Boston
Chicago–Atlanta
Minnesota–Memphis
Oklahoma City–Phoenix
Portland–Golden State
Detroit–Cleveland: 106-103
Deprived of Darius Garland and Caris LeVert, the Cavaliers had done what was necessary to afford a victory in Detroit. In the first half, they certainly left points en route to throws, but with an 11-2 in the third quarter, they are in front. Except that Detroit accelerates at the best time with a 10-1 at the start of the last quarter.
Lauri Markkanen, with 12 points in this last act, is doing his best to put the Cavaliers back in the game. After an award-winning basket from Isaac Okoro, the two teams are tied with less than 2:30 remaining. Cade Cunningham will then register four free throws to give the victory to his people. The Cavaliers will have one last chance, with several attempts at 3-pts, in the last seconds, but it is missed.
Sacramento–Denver: 110-128
Domantas Sabonis tried everything, in vain. In the first half, the former Indiana compiled 19 points and 8 rebounds, but Nikola Jokic and Will Barton, 30 points between them, also had strong arguments. With this duo, Denver is ahead at the break. The Lithuanian (33 points, 14 rebounds) multiplied to leave Sacramento in the game.
But as the minutes go by, the Kings sink under the Nuggets’ award-winning baskets. There are almost fifteen points behind, before a final burst and a return to the game.
Nikola Jokic then takes care of avoiding a slip, with eight points in the last quarter, and Monte Morris finishes the job. Fourth victory in a row for Jokic and his band.
