Cavaliers Victory Leaves Nelson Speechless Beat Warriors 112-97

Posted by Jeff Sack under Main

Golden State Warriors head coach Don Nelson’s post-game press conference was a minute two seconds. After all, what exactly can you say after watching you team fall victim to a Cavs team that outscored you 65-36 in the middle two quarters? There wasn’t much Nelson could say, as Cleveland again had a rather easy go of it, topping Golden State 112-97 at Quicken Loans Arena.

The Cavs actually did have to play somewhat harder in this one than the previous few blowouts. They found themselves trailing early 15-4, but like a snake toying with a mouse, it was nothing more than child’s play for the Cavs, who found their stride late in the first quarter. The team then went on a run, mostly in the third quarter outscoring the Warriors 36-16, going up 94-68 at the end of three.

The starters again were able to watch a decent portion of the game from the bench, as LeBron James scored 23 points in 30 minutes, going 9-for-13 from the field. He also added 7 rebounds, 8 assists and three steals. Zydrunas Illgauskas added 21 points in just 19 minutes, and Mo Williams had 16.

The bench crew again did their part to hold a relaxing lead most of the second half. Daniel Gibson had 16 points and Wally Szczerbiak had 9 points on 4-for-7 shooting. The Cavs dominated in the paint against the smaller run and gun, outscoring Golden State 50 to 28. The Warriors were led by C.J. Watson, who had 17 points.

The win pushes Cleveland to 13-3 on the season, winners of 12 of their last 13. They are also 9-0 at home, the best start in franchise history at home, and also the best start in franchise history overall. They have also won four straight by 14 or more points, the first time they have done that in close to 18 years.

The team is almost scary good at this point (which I guess isn’t a bad thing). They have broken 100 points in 11 of 16 games this season, including 7 of 9 at home, meaning the fans have gone home happy with a free treat from Taco Bell. The team plays the Bucks Saturday night in Milwaukee.

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