Cavaliers Surge to 14th Straight Win Against Bucks

MILWAUKEE — The Cleveland Cavaliers clinched their 14th consecutive victory with a 112-100 win against the Milwaukee Bucks on Sunday night, marking a significant moment in their impressive season.

Head coach Kenny Atkinson‘s unexpected strategy involved using a non-traditional lineup against star player Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Cavaliers’ unique closing group of Darius Garland, Isaac Okoro, Dean Wade, Max Strus, and Jarrett Allen proved effective, although it raised eyebrows initially.

“I did not think of that lineup ahead of time,” Atkinson admitted. “It seems like one of those years, we kind of figure it out no matter who is out there.”

This game featured exceptional contributions from role players, which highlighted Cleveland’s depth as a critical factor in their success. Strus led the team with 17 points, while Wade and Okoro each made timely three-pointers, helping the Cavs secure a comfortable lead.

Antetokounmpo, despite finishing with 30 points, struggled in the fourth quarter with just four points. The Cavaliers focused their defense on him, a strategy that Atkinson praised for its effectiveness.

The Cavaliers, now boasting a record of 54-10, are on track to become one of the best regular-season teams in NBA history. A win against the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday would only solidify this reputation, making them just the fifth team to achieve two winning streaks of at least 15 games in a single season.

Meanwhile, Donovan Mitchell, the Cavs’ leading scorer, only recorded three minutes in the fourth quarter, indicating the team’s remarkable ability to win even when their stars struggle. His performance, along with Garland’s, particularly in clutch moments, showcases the well-rounded talent within the roster.

“It’s just a testament to the depth we have on this team,” Atkinson noted, emphasizing his trust in his entire squad.

As the play-offs loom, Cleveland’s strategy against formidable opponents like the Bucks will be critical, especially when needing effective matchups against key players like Antetokounmpo.

Overall, this game not only highlighted the Cavaliers’ strengths but also raised questions about Milwaukee’s performance with their top player struggling significantly. The outcome of this matchup could have implications for both teams heading into the playoffs.