The Cavaliers turned a dead-even first quarter into an 18-point halftime lead despite missing their usual starters.
The teams traded blows through a 33-33 first quarter, but Cleveland seized control with a 38-20 second to take a 71-53 halftime lead. Jaylon Tyson led the Cavaliers with 15 points on 4-of-6 shooting, while Thomas Bryant added 14 points and six rebounds. Dallas has struggled to find its touch: Cooper Flagg is 3-of-11 for eight points, and Kyrie Irving is 1-of-7 for six. After the break, watch whether Dallas can improve its shooting and slow Cleveland’s supporting cast, which has built a sizable cushion without its usual starters.
Key Performers
Jaylon Tyson (Cleveland): 15 points, 4-of-6 FG, 2-of-3 from three Thomas Bryant (Cleveland): 14 points, 6 rebounds Cooper Flagg (Dallas): 8 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists