At the end of a superb clash between the two best teams in the NBA, the Cavaliers picked up their 11th success in a row on Wednesday by ending the Thunder’s series of 15 victories.
Cleveland defeated Oklahoma City 129-122 in a game marked by 30 lead changes.
After dominating the New York Knicks then the Boston Celtics, OKC had the ambition to beat the last member of the top 3 of the Eastern Conference. But Cleveland (30 wins – 4 losses) was too strong in its room during a thrilling match where the gap never rose above 9 points.
“I just wish I could sit back and watch, it’s a great basketball game, both teams are playing very well,” Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson said during the meeting.
Even though he missed a few unusual shots, the inevitable Canadian Shai Gilgeous-Alexander shone with 31 points. Cleveland opposed him with a collective effort (seven players with more than 11 points) and especially dominated near the circle thanks to Jarrett Allen (25 points, 12 rebounds, 6 assists) and Evan Mobley (21 points, 10 rebounds, 7 assists) .
Thunder pivot Isaiah Hartenstein held up well (18 points, 11 rebounds, 8 assists) but ended up being overwhelmed. The absence of the immense and versatile Chet Holmgren (2m16), victim of a fractured pelvis in November, was felt. But he could be reinstated for the revenge on January 16, while the Thunder remains well ahead in the West (30-6).
4th defeat in a row for the Wizards
The Wizards also conceded their 29th defeat of the season in 35 games on Wednesday, the fourth in a row, losing 109-103 in Philadelphia. Back in Washington’s starting five, Valais ‘rookie’ Kyshawn George remained discreet with 3 points (1/6 shooting), 4 rebounds and 2 assists. But he finished this match with a differential of +17.
/ATS
