CLEVELAND – The Cleveland Cavaliers secured a 112-107 victory over the Miami Heat on Wednesday night, marking their 12th consecutive win. The triumph also made the Cavaliers the first team in the NBA to clinch a playoff berth this season.
Donovan Mitchell led the Cavs with 26 points, while Darius Garland contributed 10 assists. Despite a few mistakes in the final two minutes, Cleveland held on to claim the win. This victory came just 62 games into the season, the second-fastest in franchise history, behind only the 2008-09 Cavaliers, who clinched their playoff spot in 60 games.
Cavaliers Make History
In addition to clinching a playoff spot, the Cavaliers achieved another historic feat. With this win, they became only the second team in NBA history to secure three 12-game win streaks in a single season. The 2006-07 Dallas Mavericks are the only other team to have accomplished this feat.
Cavs head coach Kenny Atkinson expressed pride in his team’s achievement, saying, “It’s special. This is really special. We know what we’re going to be judged on, but we have to enjoy a season like this.”
Heat’s Resilience and Struggles
Despite missing several key players, the Miami Heat gave the Cavaliers a tough fight. The Heat were without star guard Tyler Herro, who was sidelined due to a head cold, and several other rotational players. Still, Miami led 107-106 with 2:55 remaining in the game.
However, the Heat would not score again, and the Cavaliers regained the lead for good. Duncan Robinson had an opportunity to tie the game with a 3-pointer in the final moments, but his shot was waved off after he was called for stepping out of bounds.
Adebayo’s Stellar Performance
Miami’s Bam Adebayo had an outstanding performance, scoring a season-high 34 points. He also recorded 10 rebounds and 5 assists, while shooting 60% from the field. This marked Adebayo’s second game this season with 30 or more points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists.
However, Miami’s chances were hurt by their injuries, as they were also without Jaime Jaquez Jr. (ankle sprain), Nikola Jovic (broken hand), Kel’el Ware (knee sprain), and Andrew Wiggins (ankle sprain).
Kevin Love’s Emotional Return to Cleveland
The game also marked a special moment for Kevin Love, who played his first game in Cleveland since joining the Miami Heat two years ago. The 36-year-old Love received a warm reception from Cavaliers fans, who fondly remember his key role in helping the team win the 2016 NBA Championship. During a timeout in the first quarter, Love was honored with a video tribute, a touching reminder of his legacy in Cleveland.
Cavaliers’ Balanced Attack
Aside from Mitchell’s 26 points, Evan Mobley and De’Andre Hunter contributed with 16 points each. Their combined effort helped the Cavaliers maintain their strong lead and weather the final moments of the game.
What’s Next for the Cavaliers?
The Cavaliers’ 12-game win streak has solidified their position at the top of the Eastern Conference, and with their playoff berth now secured, they will look to maintain their momentum as the regular season enters its final stretch. As the team gears up for postseason play, Coach Atkinson and his players will continue to focus on improving and staying consistent in the coming games.
The Cleveland Cavaliers are now firmly entrenched in the playoff picture after earning their 12th straight win against the Miami Heat. With a blend of strong individual performances and team effort, they’ve become one of the most impressive teams in the NBA this season. As they celebrate this milestone, the Cavs will continue their push for a deep playoff run.
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