During Wednesday’s NBA action, the Cleveland Cavaliers, led by Donovan Mitchell‘s return, showcased a remarkable performance, defeating the New Orleans Pelicans 116-95. The victory was marked by the Cavs’ precision from beyond the arc, hitting 20 3-pointers and effectively ending the Pelicans’ four-game winning streak.
Mitchell scored 14 points, Darius Garland had 27 points and 11 assists, and the Cleveland Cavaliers combined for 20 3-pointers in a 116-95 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday night.
“That’s how we’re supposed to play,” Mitchell said. “Move the ball around, getting stops. It was just fun to watch and be a part of.
“We really stepped up against a great team,” he added. “It was beautiful.”
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The Cavaliers’ team effort was on full display, with multiple players contributing significantly from long range, setting a pace that the Pelicans struggled to match. Despite New Orleans’ efforts in scoring from the paint and the foul line, they could not overcome Cleveland’s 3-point barrage.
Zion Williamson‘s 33 points and nine rebounds highlighted the Pelicans’ individual performances, yet the team fell short in matching the Cavaliers’ urgency and execution.
“We just weren’t on from the 3-point line tonight,” Williamson said. “But when nights like that happen, we have to find other ways to be effective.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers, Zion Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans Updates
The Cavaliers’ strategy of leveraging the 3-point shot as a weapon proved effective. The team emphasized open shots and kept the offense dynamic. Mitchell’s return, despite scoring below his season average, provided a significant boost to the team’s confidence and offensive options.
Cleveland’s approach to the game, focusing on perimeter shooting over interior play, underscored their tactical flexibility and ability to adapt their game plan based on their strengths and the opposition’s weaknesses.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers, Zion Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans Updates
As fans began to leave early in the face of Cleveland’s commanding lead, the Cavaliers continued to press their advantage, highlighting contributions from the bench and capitalizing on their depth.
The Cavaliers are set to face the Houston Rockets on Saturday night, looking to build on this win, while the Pelicans will host the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday night, aiming to bounce back from this setback.
