Cavaliers Dominate Heat in Game 1 of Eastern Conference Playoffs

CLEVELAND, Ohio — The Cleveland Cavaliers showcased their dominance with a decisive 121-100 victory over the Miami Heat in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference first round on April 20, 2025. The Cavaliers now lead the series 1-0.

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From the opening tip-off, the Cavaliers established their tempo, outscoring the Heat 31-24 in the first quarter. Cleveland’s guard Donovan Mitchell led the scoring with 30 points, while teammate Evan Mobley contributed significantly with 28 points and five rebounds. The Cavaliers’ efficient offensive performance was complemented by a stellar defense, forcing the Heat into 14 turnovers.

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“We came out with the right mindset,” said Cavaliers head coach J.B. Bickerstaff. “It was crucial for us to control the pace from the start, and I think we did just that.”

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The Heat struggled to find their rhythm, shooting just 45.7% from the field compared to the Cavaliers’ 48.8%. Miami’s Tyler Herro was their leading scorer with 24 points, but it wasn’t enough to keep pace with Cleveland

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The second quarter saw Cleveland extending their lead with a 31-point effort, closing out the half at 62-54. Miami’s defense faltered at key moments, allowing the Cavaliers to further exploit their offensive strengths.

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“Every time we tried to make a run, they answered back,” said Heat center Bam Adebayo. “We have to find a way to lock in defensively and limit their scoring opportunities.”

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In the second half, the Cavaliers maintained control of the game, pushing their lead to as much as 23 points in the fourth quarter. The Heat managed to cut the deficit but failed to mount a significant challenge as the clock wound down.

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“We have to regroup and come back stronger in the next game,” added Adebayo.

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The next game is set for April 22, 2025, where Miami will seek to even the series on the road.

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Attendance for the contest was 19,432, highlighting the fervent support for the Cavaliers as they embark on their playoff journey.