The Miami Heat traveled to Cleveland to tip-off against the Cavaliers on Wednesday night in what was expected to be an easy win. Although it was a little too close for comfort, the Cavs pulled out a 112-107 victory in the end.
They were propelled by some incredible shot making down the stretch between Donovan Mitchell and Deandre Hunter, who combined for 14 points in the fourth quarter. Darius Garland also played a huge factor in crunch time with six assists in the final frame.
In a game that wasn't the prettiest for Cleveland, perhaps the biggest bright spot was Evan Mobley's continued dominance against elite big men. Facing off against one of the best defenders in the league in Bam Adebayo, Mobley had another great game with 16 points and 13 rebounds.
Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) © John Hefti-Imagn Images © John Hefti-Imagn Images
The win for the Cavs, which was their 12th straight, made them the first team to clinch a playoff berth in the NBA this season. According to ESPN, this was the second fastest playoff clinch of all time, happening in only 62 games.
It's just another reminder of how special Cleveland has been their year. They became only the second team in NBA history to go on three separate 12-game win streaks in the same season. From the moment the season began, you could just tell this years' team was different.
Head coach Kenny Atkinson, who had been undeservedly passed over many times in the past, came to the city and immediately transformed the team. He's taken Mobley's game by drastically increasing his number of three-point attempts, which frees up the paint for their guards.
When you consider that this roster is nearly identical to the team last year that got embarrassed in the second round by the Boston Celtics, this turnaround is nothing short of miraculous.
About a year ago, it looked like Mitchell would leave the Cavs and it would be time for another rebuild. But now, if they continue on this trajectory, the city of Cleveland has a great chance to compete for a championship.
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This story was originally published March 7, 2025 at 4:55 PM.