The Cleveland Cavaliers made franchise history on Wednesday night by defeating the New Orleans Pelicans 131-122 to open the season with a perfect 9-0 record, a first in their 55-year NBA history. Led by Donovan Mitchell's 29 points, the Cavaliers showcased their strength and determination on the court.
Caris LeVert and Jarrett Allen contributed 16 points each, with Allen also grabbing an impressive 14 rebounds during the game. This victory surpassed the previous record set by the 1976-77 Cavaliers team that started 8-0 under coach Bill Fitch.
Despite the Pelicans' efforts, which included Zion Williamson's return from a two-game absence with 29 points, they were unable to keep up with the Cavaliers' momentum. Jose Alvarado's impressive performance, scoring 27 points with seven 3-pointers, was not enough to secure a win for New Orleans.
Key Takeaways
Cavaliers: Cleveland displayed resilience by overcoming an early 12-point deficit and shooting an impressive 54.2% from the field, including 48.6% from beyond the arc.
Pelicans: Despite a valiant effort, the Pelicans struggled to match the Cavaliers' scoring power, resulting in their third consecutive loss.
Key Moment
With the game hanging in the balance, Donovan Mitchell's crucial play with a hesitation move and floater helped the Cavaliers maintain their lead and secure the victory, halting the Pelicans' momentum in the final minutes.
Key Stat
The Cavaliers' bench played a significant role in the win, contributing 50 points, with standout performances from Caris LeVert and Ty Jerome.
Upcoming Games
The Cavaliers will face the Golden State Warriors at home on Friday, aiming to continue their historic start. Meanwhile, the Pelicans will visit Orlando in their next game, seeking to bounce back from their recent losses.
For more NBA news and updates, visit AP NBA.
