CLEVELAND, OH -- The Cavaliers seem to have a step on the Mavericks out of the gate, which was expected due to Dallas playing on the second night of a road back-to-back. Cleveland lit up the Mavs for 67 first-half points, taking a 6-point lead into the half. Luka Doncic woke up at halftime, scoring 20 points in the third quarter alone to take control of the game, leading the Mavericks to a 120-112 win over the Cavaliers.
Luka Doncic was forcing constant double teams, which left Finney-Smith wide open on the perimeter for most of the night. Dorian Finney-Smith cruised to a new career high 28 points, going 6-12 from deep. MVP candidate Luka Donic ended the game with 35 points, 13 dimes, and 9 boards.
Cleveland was without both of their starting bigs, Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley. Moses Brown got the nod to start at center and did not disappoint, scoring a dozen while roping in 9 rebounds. Darius Garland finished his night with a double-double, scoring 25 points and dropping 10 assists.
The Atlanta Hawks prepare to host the Cavaliers, who will begin a quick two game road trip. Tip-off is set for 7:30 pm ET at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia.