(Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)
CLEVELAND – The Cleveland Cavaliers came out firing on all cylinders and led by 20 points at halftime 61-41. The Cavs had the 3rd quarter coming up, which they have notoriously struggled in, but they were able to extend their lead, outscoring Boston 26-22. The Cavs went on to win by 30 points at home, winning 116-86.
George Hill really got the Cavs rolling early with 11 points in 11 minutes in the 1st quarter. The Cavs were determined to set the tempo and they were very active early on both sides of the ball.
All five of the Cavs starters scored in double digits, and LeBron got some much needed help from the role players. LeBron James led the way with 27 points, 12 assists, and 5 rebounds. Kevin Love had 13 points and 14 rebounds, George Hill had 13 points, Tristian Thompson had 10 points and 7 rebounds, and JR Smith had 11 points going 3-4 from behind the arch. Coming off the bench, Kyle Korver had a huge game especially from 3 point land going 4-4 and 14 points. Larry Nance Jr saw some meaningful minutes with 8 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 steals.
The Cavs defense really held this young Celtics team in check. Boston was only able to shoot 27% from behind the arch and 39% overall. The Celtics were led by Jayson Tatum with 18 points, Terry Rozier 13 points, Jaylen Brown 10 points, and Greg Monroe with 10 points off the bench.
Game 4 will be this Monday May 21 at 8:30 from Quicken Loans Arena in Downtown Cleveland. The Cavaliers will look to even this series as Boston holds a 2-1 Series lead.
Kipp Cullin WTAM 1100