James Harden made a strong return after missing two games with a fractured right thumb, scoring 22 points along with nine rebounds and eight assists, as the Cleveland Cavaliers edged the Brooklyn Nets 106-102 on Sunday in New York. Harden’s presence proved crucial in the tightly contested game, nearly achieving his first triple-double since joining Cleveland.
Key Contributors Shine for Cleveland Despite Mitchell’s Absence
The Cavaliers managed to hold on without Donovan Mitchell, who remains sidelined due to a strained groin, marking their third consecutive game without him. Former Net Jarrett Allen added 20 points, and Evan Mobley contributed 17, providing stability on both ends. Sam Merrill scored 15, and Dennis Schroder added 12 points while Cleveland shot 48.6% from the field and made 25 free throws, including nine in the decisive fourth quarter.
Nets Show Fight but Extend Losing Streak
Michael Porter Jr. led all scorers with 26 points, energizing Brooklyn as they nearly erased a nine-point deficit late in the game. Rookie Danny Wolf contributed a career-best 23 points and nine rebounds, and first-year guard Nolan Traore scored 17. Despite their strong effort and shooting 50.7%, the Nets could not end their losing streak, dropping their eighth straight game. Brooklyn played without rookie Egor Demin and rested Nic Claxton due to a thumb injury.
Late Game Drama and Crucial Free Throws Decide the Outcome
The Cavaliers rallied after losing a 13-point lead in their previous game against Detroit. Cleveland was ahead 98-89 with just over three minutes left but allowed the Nets to close the gap to 102-101 with under 10 seconds remaining. The game was sealed when Mobley made two free throws with 3.7 seconds left, ensuring the Cavaliers’ seventh consecutive victory over Brooklyn.
Game Flow and Shifts in Momentum
Cleveland started hot, shooting 70.6% in the opening quarter, but cooled off in the second quarter, going 4-of-18 and falling behind 52-46 at halftime. The Cavs regained the lead early in the third with Harden’s four-point play to go up 70-64, but Brooklyn held a narrow 75-74 lead going into the final period before the back-and-forth finish.
Significance of the Win and What Lies Ahead
This victory offers the Cavaliers renewed confidence as they continue navigating key injuries while maintaining control against a struggling Nets team. For Brooklyn, the loss underscores ongoing challenges, but notable contributions from younger players like Wolf and Traore provide potential for growth. The Cavaliers’ ability to close out tight games without Mitchell will be vital moving forward.
