Overview
- Darius Garland made his season debut after toe surgery, posting 8 points and 4 assists in 26 minutes as Cleveland’s ball movement returned and the Cavs hit 18-of-44 from three.
- Jarrett Allen (24 points, 10 rebounds) and Evan Mobley (23 points) capitalized on improved creation, repeatedly finding finishes at the rim.
- Cleveland opened 17-4 and, after Philadelphia tied it at 72, answered with a 13-0 burst to restore control and carried a 20-point lead into the fourth quarter.
- Donovan Mitchell shot 15-of-21 and 6-of-11 from deep with 8 free throws made and a season-high 8 assists to close out Cleveland’s second straight win.
- On the second night of a road back-to-back a day after blowing a 24-point lead in Chicago, the Sixers sat Embiid for left knee management; Tyrese Maxey and Quentin Grimes led Philadelphia with 27 points apiece.