In the playoffs, the Cavaliers have shown their strength. This season, they’re playing like the tough guys.
Donovan Mitchell scored 23 points, and Jarrett Allen grabbed 20 rebounds as Cleveland defeated the Orlando Magic 96-86 on Monday night. With this win, they now lead the first-round Eastern Conference series 2-0.
It’s been an impressive start for the Cavs, who were determined to do better after last year’s early exit against the New York Knicks. Many criticized them for being too soft, especially Allen, but they’ve proven them wrong.
“It feels good,” Allen said. “It shows that we’ve grown as a team and as individuals. We’re not giving up under pressure. We might have our tough moments, but, we’ve improved a lot.”
Mitchell led the way as the Cavs maintained their lead throughout the game, just like in Game 1.
Evan Mobley added 17 points, and Allen contributed 16 points along with nine offensive rebounds. This puts Allen in elite company, alongside Kevin Love and Brad Daugherty, as the third player in Cavs history to grab 20 rebounds in a playoff game.
“It’s a significant achievement,” Allen said. “It’s great to be in such esteemed company.”
For the Magic, Paolo Banchero scored 21 points and Franz Wagner added 18, but it wasn’t enough to turn the tide. The Magic have struggled with their shooting, making only 36% of their shots, including 9 of 35 from beyond the arc.
“We need to start making our shots,” Banchero said. “It’s frustrating when the shots aren’t falling. But we believe we can turn things around when we play at home.”
The series now moves to Orlando for Game 3, and Allen expects another physical showdown.
