The Cleveland Cavaliers showcased an exceptional offensive performance on Friday night, defeating the Denver Nuggets 149-135. This victory marks a historic milestone, as it improves the Cavaliers' record to 27-4, the best start in franchise history through 31 games. Under the guidance of first-year head coach Kenny Atkinson, the Cavaliers have established themselves as a dominant force in the NBA, leading the standings with their high-powered offense.
In this game, four players from Cleveland scored over 20 points, highlighting the team's depth and versatility. Donovan Mitchell led the charge with 33 points, followed by Evan Mobley with 26, Darius Garland with 25, and Jarrett Allen contributing 22 points. The Cavaliers excelled from beyond the arc, hitting a season-high 23 three-pointers at an impressive 47.9% shooting rate, while also dishing out 40 assists, another season-best.
This game was notable as it marked the fifth occasion this season where four Cavaliers players scored at least 20 points, the highest in the league. Each of these games featured a different combination of scorers, showcasing the team's balanced offensive attack. For instance, in previous games, combinations included Mitchell, Garland, Allen, and Caris LeVert, among others. This contrasts sharply with last season, where the Cavaliers did not have any such games, emphasizing the significant improvement in their offensive capabilities.
Currently, six players from Cleveland are averaging double-digit points per game, with ten players scoring at least six points per contest. The depth of the roster has been a critical factor in the Cavaliers' successful start, and as the season progresses, this depth could be pivotal for a strong postseason run in 2025.
