The Cleveland Cavaliers came into their game against the Orlando Magic on a 16-game winning streak but were not able to keep the good vibes rolling, losing 108-103. It was a game where the Cavs had big leads throughout the game but down the stretch, were not able to execute, allowing the Magic to get back into it.
Late in the game, Paolo Banchero hit a mid-range shot to put the Magic up 104-103, and the Cavs had several chances to get the lead back but weren’t able to cash in. De’Andre Hunter and Max Strus had open looks from three that didn’t go in, and the Magic were able to walk away with the win.
The Magic came into the game looking to find some kind of momentum through this time of the season as they’re trying to stay in the Play-In race. For the Cavs, this was their first loss since the beginning of February, and they were also without their best defender, Evan Mobley.
Mitchell came back to the court for the Cavs after missing the last two games with a sore groin and finished with 23 points.
For the Cavs, though they’re having a great year and they’re winning a lot of games, executing down the stretch of games will be big for them, and that’s something they’ve had a problem with during the season.
The Cavs have had multiple long winning streaks throughout the season, and they have a chance to do it once again after losing against the Magic. As they continue to try and finish the season strong, the Cavs will be fighting to have home-court advantage throughout the playoffs and if they make it to the NBA Finals. That means they’ll have to stay in front of the Oklahoma City Thunder for the best record in the league.
