Wizards Easily Handle Cavaliers and Continue their Winning Ways
By: Yusuf House
Photo: Ned Dishman/NBAE via Getty Images
WASHINGTON D.C. - Washington grabbed an early lead and never letup to defeat Cleveland. The Wizards led wire to wire and managed to keep the Cavs at a comfortable margin the entire game. From the opening tip Bradley Beal and Otto Porter jumped all over the Cavs combining for 25 points in the first half. By halftime the Wizards led by 21 taking a 73-52 lead into the locker room.
The Wizards used a balanced offensive attack in the second half to maintain the lead and secure another win. Jeff Green and Austin Rivers were instrumental for the Wizards providing energy off the bench and anchoring the Wizards second unit. Austin Rivers provided great offense going four for 10 from the field and finishing with 12 points. Five Wizards players scored double digits as the Wizards offense looked very sharp throughout the game.
The Wizards stepped up their defense in the third quarter as the Cavs attempted to make a run. In total Washington’s defense created 29 points off Cleveland turnovers.
“We did a good job of coming out there very aggressive on the defensive end,'' Dwight Howard said. ''We got a lot of stops early which allowed us to get a pretty good lead.''
The Cavs were led by Collin Sexton who finished with a career high 24 points on 9 for 16 shooting.
After a dismal October going 1-6, the Wizards are 4-3 in November and have won 3 straight games. The Wizards entered tonight’s game looking to keep their momentum going. Currently, the Wizards have the longest winning streak in the eastern conference. Meanwhile the Cavs entered tonight dead last in the eastern conference and struggling mightily after losing LeBron James last offseason.
The Cavs struggles are also due to a several injuries to key players. Forward Kevin Love (foot surgery), starting point guard George Hill (hamstring), forward Sam Dekker (ankle), and sharp shooter Kyle Korver (sore right foot).
''On the second night of a back-to-back, you have to know they're going to throw their punches,'' Cavaliers forward Larry Nance, Jr. said. ''You just have to weather the storm and ride the game out, and we didn't weather the storm.''
Cedi Osman returned to the lineup for the Cavs tonight after suffering back spasms. Osman scoring 4 points and grabbing 5 rebounds in his return.
The Wizards continue their pivotal five game homestand Friday against the Brooklyn Nets. Meanwhile the Cavs will enjoy a few days rest before facing the Pistons in Detroit November 19th.