NBA roundup: Cavs stay perfect, stun Nets for 11-0 start
Audio By Carbonatix
Displaying remarkable resilience, the Cleveland Cavaliers, powered by an outstanding performance from Evan Mobley, collected 23 points and pulled down 16 rebounds to overcome a 13-point deficit late in the game. This incredible comeback led to a thrilling 105-100 victory against the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday night, allowing Cleveland to extend their season-opening winning streak to a historic 11 games.
With this latest triumph, Cleveland has etched its name into NBA history as the first team to start a season with an impressive 11-0 record since the Golden State Warriors accomplished the feat in the 2015-16 season, when they remarkably won their first 24 games while eventually finishing with a record of 73-9.
Brooklyn initially appeared poised for victory when Dennis Schroder hit a crucial three-pointer, elevating the Nets to an 85-72 advantage just 46 seconds into the fourth quarter. However, the Cavaliers responded with an explosive rally that showcased their tenacity and skill.
Cameron Johnson contributed significantly for the Nets with 23 points, while Dennis Schroder and Cam Thomas each added 22. With just over four minutes remaining, Brooklyn briefly held a 96-89 lead after Johnson’s impressive three-pointer, but the Cavaliers unleashed a commanding 16-4 scoring run over the final moments to secure the win.
Bulls 125, Hawks 113
After a few games on the sidelines, Zach LaVine returned to the lineup and made an immediate impact, scoring 18 points and igniting a late-game rally that propelled the visiting Chicago Bulls past the Atlanta Hawks. This victory not only marked a turnaround but also ended the Bulls’ frustrating four-game losing streak.
In a demonstration of team effort, the Bulls had eight players score in double figures, with standout performances from Ayo Dosunmu, who led the team with 19 points. Nikola Vucevic and Coby White both added 18 points, with Vucevic also contributing 12 rebounds to the winning effort.
The Hawks were led by Jalen Johnson and Clint Capela, who each scored 20 points, while Capela also grabbed nine rebounds. Zaccharie Risacher added a solid 17 points, and Trae Young’s performance of 14 points paired with 16 assists showcased his playmaking abilities.
Jazz 111, Spurs 110
In a nail-biting finish, Collin Sexton’s impressive 23-point performance propelled the Utah Jazz to a narrow victory over the San Antonio Spurs. Jordan Clarkson played a crucial role as well, sinking four vital free throws in the final 12 seconds to help seal the win for Utah.
Lauri Markkanen contributed 20 points to bolster the Jazz offense, while Clarkson finished with 16, John Collins recorded 15 points along with 10 rebounds, and Johnny Juzang chipped in with 10 points.
On the Spurs’ side, Victor Wembanyama had an impressive solo effort, leading the team with 24 points and 16 rebounds. Stephon Castle added 23 points for San Antonio, while Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, and Harrison Barnes rounded out the scoring efforts with contributions of 21, 14, and 10 points, respectively.
Clippers 105, Raptors 103
In a closely contested matchup, Norman Powell and James Harden each scored 24 points, leading the Los Angeles Clippers to a hard-fought victory over the visiting Toronto Raptors, handing Toronto their third consecutive loss during a challenging five-game road trip.
Harden’s stats were significant, as he also recorded 12 rebounds and a game-high seven assists, contributing to the Clippers’ fourth consecutive win. Kevin Porter Jr. added valuable support off the bench with 15 points, six rebounds, and five assists.
On the Raptors’ side, Immanuel Quickley shone in the fourth quarter, scoring 12 points and finishing the game with a team-high matching total of 21 alongside Ochai Agbaji. Gradey Dick contributed 15 points, Chris Boucher added 14 from the bench, and RJ Barrett provided 13 points to the team effort.
–Field Level Media
**Interview with NBA Analyst Mark Thompson**
**Editor:** Welcome, Mark! The Cleveland Cavaliers have made headlines after their stunning victory against the Brooklyn Nets, making history with an 11-0 start. What are your thoughts on their performance this season?
**Mark Thompson:** Thanks for having me! The Cavs have been impressive, not just because of their record but how they’ve managed to win games. Their latest comeback against the Nets shows great resilience. Evan Mobley’s performance, with 23 points and 16 rebounds, was pivotal. He’s really stepping up as a key player for them.
**Editor:** Absolutely! The comeback against the Nets must have been thrilling for fans. What do you think was the turning point in that game?
**Mark Thompson:** The turning point was definitely when they were down by 13 in the fourth quarter. The Nets looked like they had control with a solid 85-72 lead. But the Cavs executed a fantastic 16-4 run at the end. It highlighted their tenacity and ability to perform under pressure. Cleveland showed they truly believe in themselves, which is crucial for a successful season.
**Editor:** You mentioned Evan Mobley’s standout performance. How vital is he to the Cavaliers’ success moving forward?
**Mark Thompson:** Mobley is crucial! He’s not just a great scorer and rebounder; he adds so much versatility on defense. The Cavaliers have built a solid foundation around him, and as he continues to develop, the team’s ceiling will rise. If he can maintain this level of play, they will be serious contenders.
**Editor:** The Cavaliers are the first team to start 11-0 since the Warriors in the 2015-16 season. How do you see their trajectory compared to that historic team?
**Mark Thompson:** It’s hard to compare directly because the Warriors had a different offensive approach and star power. However, the Cavs’ incredible start signals that they’re building something special. They’ll have to stay healthy and keep their momentum going, but if they can stay consistent, there’s no telling how deep they can go in the playoffs.
**Editor:** Switching gears, let’s briefly talk about the Bulls’ win against the Hawks. Zach LaVine’s return seems to have energized the team. What’s your take on their performance?
**Mark Thompson:** LaVine’s impact was immediate! Scoring 18 points in his return showcases his importance to the Bulls. The team displayed great depth with eight players scoring in double figures, which is essential for their offense. Also, Ayo Dosunmu stepping up as the leading scorer is a positive sign for their future. This win can be a springboard for them to rebuild momentum after their losing streak.
**Editor:** Thanks, Mark, for sharing your insights! It’s certainly an exciting time in the NBA.
**Mark Thompson:** Always a pleasure! I’m looking forward to seeing how the rest of the season unfolds.
