(Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON D.C., MD -- After being sidelined with a foot injury since October, the Cavaliers were able to get Kevin Love back into the lineup as the Cavaleris faced off against the Washington Wizards on the road. While Love was limited to just six minutes, it was refreshing to see him back on the court leading this young team. After sinking his first two free throws, Love found himself matched up with former Cavalier Jeff Green, Love then backed Green down, and easily scored on a turnaround hookshot to secure his first bucket since October.
The Cavs and Wizards were battling back-and-forth throughout the first quarter, until Bobby Portis checked into the game. Portis came off of the bench and scorched the Cavaliers for 16 points in just a couple minutes of play. With a big help from Portis, Washington was able to get out to a 41-27 lead in the first quarter, and were able to cruise to a 14-point halftime lead. The Cavs came out of halftime fired up, and finally showed some signs of life. Thanks to the constant scoring from both Clarkson and Sexton, The Cavaliers got off to a 20-8 run in the third quarter. Despite getting themselves back into the game, the Wizards were able to hang on, as they defeat the Cleveland Cavaliers by the final score of 119-106.
Jordan Clarkson provided an impressive 24 points off of the bench, as he continues his dominance in the "6th man" role. Cavaliers rookie guard Collin Sexton showed confidence, scoring a team-high 27 points on 10-18 shooting. Larry Nance Jr. dominated the glass, pulling in 19 boards.
The Cavaliers will look to bounce back with a win as they will square off against the Indiana Pacers on Saturday night, February 9th. Tip-off is set for 7:00 PM ET at Bankers Life Fieldhouse, in Indianapolis, Indiana.