This was clearly a rebound game to begin with. And the Cavs, although shaky at times, performed like they usually do after losses this season. And let’s not forget, the Cavs love them some home court.
From the beginning they brought high energy. Lebron had a mindset to stay in the drivers seat and had two quick ‘and ones.’ Ben kept getting boards and Sasha seemed patient with his shot going 3-3 early in the game.
The presence of Z was much needed. He came off strong with an easy tip in, a smooth wing shot and layup for an easy 6, all before LA called its first time out. 11-0 Cavs.
But even after building up an 18-2 lead, they displayed some reminiscent lackadaisical defense from seasons before. In the last three games (SAC, ORL, LAC) the Cavs have given up 50+ points in each of the first halves.
Also, can someone guard Novak on the perimeter? Kevin Martin, Anthony Morrow, and Jameer have all torched them from behind the arc recently. I would’ve put Tarence Kinsey in but he turned his ankle last night (3-5 weeks). Great, one comes in, another goes out. I miss Delonte.
No design on Boobie’s scalp. Maybe that should be incorporated as a stat. What’s the Cavs win-loss when he displays his afro art compared to when he doesn’t?
Boobie continues to struggle on D (especially on mismatches) and it doesn’t help that the guys he’s guarding are post-injury Baron Davis and the only rookie on my fantasy team, Eric Gordon (who by the way had a beautiful game on display). Also, my buddy Greg joked that I should point out post-injury Baron Davis is worse in the post because he’s heavier.
Szczerbiak continued where he left off yesterday. I truly would hate to see him leave, but he’s uppin his trade value if he stays consistent like the past two games.
Anytime I get to see Ricky Davis whine it makes me smile. Which gets me to…
Those of you who watched the Cleveland local programming were actually presented with a pretty decent poll question during the second quarter: Who has been the most controversial former Cavalier? a) Ricky Davis b) Darius Miles c) Larry Hughes or d) Carlos Boozer. I have many opinions on each of those players, but I’ll save that for later.
Varejao got his first bread and butter before the end of the half (and by bread and butter, I mean charge).
Halftime tie at 54.
Lebron played his average minutes fluidly. Nothing new to report from the King. But still, a lot of his deep jumpers and 3s seemed deflated and fell short.
Sasha continued to show no emotion as he drained shots from all around the court; only when he complained about his five fouls.
Mo was feelin the 3 on the wing tonight. Last 5 games he’s been exactly .500 and was 5-6 today. Some fans have the luxury of taking it for granted, but the Cavs finally have a point guard who can shoot.
Outstanding performance by Z tonight, with a 20/11 on his return debut.
Final: 112-95 Cleveland, streak of 22-0 at home continues.
Final Thought: Marcus Camby and DeAndre Jordan, who average almost 16 points a game between them, were held to just 6 today. It’s good to have Z back.
