It was a big showdown on Jan. 8 as the Cleveland Cavaliers and Oklahoma City Thunder faced off as they’re the best two teams in the conference record-wise. The Cavs ended up taking the victory, 129-122, and it was a complete team effort from the starters down to the second unit.
Daris Garland had a solid game for the Cavs, finishing with 18 points and seven assists, and doing what he normally does to help his team win. After the game, Garland was asked about being an All-Star this year, and he made a bold claim not just for himself, but for others on the team as well.
“I’ve been trying to be as humble as possible, but yeah, I should be an All-Star. Yes. There should be four of us on this team that’s All-Stars,” Garland said via Cavs reporter Danny Cunningham.
The Cavs have been playing like the best team in the league this season, and there’s no doubt that they should have several All-Stars. Garland and Donovan Mitchell have been one of the best backcourts, while Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen have been one of the best frontcourts. At the end of the day, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see those four in an All-Star jersey this year.
Did Cavs prove they’re the best team in the league?
Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Everyone was anticipating this matchup against the Cavs and Thunder to see who could have the title of the best team in the league. It came down to the fourth quarter, but the Cavs pulled through with the win and showed that they’re a serious team. There have been doubters who don’t believe in the Cavs, but a win like this should hold some weight.
Not only was it a win for the Cavs, but the NBA was able to witness something special, as both teams were on long winning streaks coming into the game, something that hadn’t been done in NBA history.
“To see all that talent out there, these were the heavy hitters of the league and the quality of basketball was super high,” head coach Kenny Atkinson said after the game. “A great win for the Cavs, but a win for the league tonight.”
These two teams will face off again next week, but this time in Oklahoma City. It’ll probably be another close game that comes down to the wire, as these two teams show that they could possibly see each other in the NBA Finals.
