Hawks Upset Cavaliers in Cleveland
The Atlanta Hawks secured a significant victory against the Cleveland Cavaliers, winning 135-124. This outcome marked a rare defeat for the Cavaliers, who now hold a record of 17-2, ending their impressive home winning streak at 11 games.
Trae Young's Stellar Performance
Trae Young led the Hawks with a career-high 22 assists, which is also the highest in the league this season. In addition to his playmaking, Young contributed 20 points. His ability to facilitate plays was crucial, especially in the fourth quarter where he recorded eight assists. Despite facing challenges with his shooting, Young's leadership and composure were vital in guiding the Hawks to victory. De’Andre Hunter also played a key role, scoring 26 points, while Jalen Johnson added 22 points. Rookie Zaccharie Risacher made a notable contribution with 17 points, including 13 points in a strong second-half performance.
Cavaliers' Strong Start
Despite the loss, the Cavaliers had a strong showing, particularly from Donovan Mitchell, who scored 30 points. Evan Mobley also made a significant impact with 22 points and 13 rebounds. The Cavaliers initially built a 19-point lead, but struggled to maintain their advantage as the game progressed. The Hawks capitalized on critical moments, especially in the latter stages of the contest.
Decisive Moments
A key moment in the game came when Young, after a turnover, made a remarkable 39-foot three-pointer, extending the Hawks' lead to 129-122 with just over a minute left. This shot highlighted Young's resilience and ability to perform under pressure, silencing the home crowd and showcasing his clutch performance.
Future Encounters
The Hawks and Cavaliers are scheduled to meet again soon in an NBA Cup game, which is expected to be another competitive matchup. Currently, the Hawks have a 2-1 record in their group, while the Cavaliers sit at 1-1, with both teams looking to improve their standings in pool play.
