We’ve got a tie series, everyone! Down 0-2 against the Detroit Pistons, the Cleveland Cavaliers needed to protect their home court at all costs to stay alive in the series. The Cavs did exactly that, winning their next two home games to tie the series. After fending off a late Pistons comeback attempt in Game 3, Cleveland cleanly took care of business in Game 4, winning 112-103.

It’s clear that there’s been a major shift in the Cavaliers’ play over the last two games. What has changed? Well, head coach Kenny Atkinson shared what he thought was the switch that flipped for the starters in Game 4.

“I thought Dean Wade took his defense to another level,” Atkinson said, per RealCavsFan on X. “To have a 6’9″ body that can just lean on Cade, make things difficult, thought that was key. I thought James came out really aggressive, so those two bookends.”

James Harden came out strong for the Cavs, attacking the basket relentlessly. While he made five of his nine three-point attempts, he also added nine free throws to bring his total to 24 points for the game. He was also the primary creator for the team, dishing out 11 assists.

Dean Wade, on the other hand, was completely quiet on the offensive end. He only attempted one field goal and did not score a single point. However, his impact was felt primarily on the defensive end. Cunningham was forced into five turnovers on the day, and the Pistons guard shot under 50% from the field on the night. Wade’s impact was felt heavily on that end, as with Cunningham struggling the Pistons were unable to generate good shot attempts. His +20 plus-minus is proof of that.

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Meanwhile, Donovan Mitchell stole the show for the Cavs on offense. He finished the game with 43 points, scoring 39 of those in the second half. Mitchell set the playoff record for most points in one half with that performance to tie the series against the first-seeded Pistons.

The Cavs have struggled in the playoffs while on the road. If there’s ever a time to break this trend, it’s in Game 5. Game 5 will be played on Wednesday at Detroit