The Houston Rockets delivered a statement win against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Saturday, securing a victory that reshaped the Western Conference standings.
In a game characterized by momentum shifts, the Rockets (30-14) brought the Cavaliers (36-9) down to second place, just half a game behind the Oklahoma City Thunder (36-8).
This marked Cleveland’s first three-game losing streak of the season, a surprising turn for a team that had been dominating the conference.
However, despite the defeat, Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell found a silver lining by etching his name into the franchise’s history books.
“With his 4th 3FG tonight, @spidadmitchell (586 3FG w/@cavs) has moved past JR Smith (585 3FG) for 7th place on the franchise’s all-time 3FG list,” Cavs Notes reported on X.
With his 4th 3FG tonight, @spidadmitchell (586 3FG w/@cavs) has moved past JR Smith (585 3FG) for 7th place on the franchise's all-time 3FG list.#LetEmKnow
— Cavs Notes (@CavsNotes) January 26, 2025
The game’s opening quarter mirrored their previous encounter, with the Cavaliers establishing an early rhythm.
They capitalized on second-chance shots and fast-break opportunities, while Mitchell quickly notched the first eight points for Cleveland.
However, the Rockets were equally competitive, shooting an impressive 62% from the field.
As the game progressed, Darius Garland found his scoring touch in the second quarter, shooting 3-of-4 and contributing eight points.
The Rockets’ lead fluctuated between 10 and 16 points, with both teams trading baskets.
Houston dominated paint points and secured crucial offensive rebounds, entering halftime with a commanding 68-54 lead.
Mitchell, who had been held scoreless for nearly 23 minutes in the first half, sparked a comeback in the second half.
He scored nine points in just six minutes, injecting energy into the Cavaliers’ offense.
Despite his efforts, Cleveland’s frequent fouling gave Houston the opportunity to capitalize at the free-throw line, converting 11 of 18 attempts and maintaining a significant 17-point lead as they headed into the final quarter.
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