The Cleveland Cavaliers delivered a stunning performance on Monday night, defeating the Miami Heat 138-83 in what has become the most lopsided playoff series in NBA history. The Cavaliers went on to an incredible 4-game sweep of the first round of the Eastern Conference playoffs. This had the Heat and their fans reeling.
Cleveland’s up-tempo offensive gameplan made the Heat adjust at all ends of the floor as they were not able to stop the Cavaliers’ fury’s storm. At the end of the game, Cleveland had attempted an unheard of 120 shots, which was the most amount ever attempted by a Heat opponent. Additionally, the Cavaliers launched 65 three-pointers, setting a record for Miami’s opponents and ranking as the third-highest total in NBA history.
As it turned out, the game opened the NBA season with an electrifying bang. It told the story of some of the league’s most exciting moments. The Heat wanted to play downhill and get in the paint, or, failing that, get up a three-pointer, on all possessions. Their designs were upended by a gritty, dogged Cavaliers team that had nothing to lose.
“That’s a chess game. Chess match. You’ve got to give them credit.” – Donovan Mitchell
In a sport known for wild swings, Cleveland’s victory was not just the result of their shooting firepower. That became even more apparent when the third quarter, for the most part, featured a baffling free-throw disparity—Cleveland getting 21 attempts to just four for Miami. Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson was very vocally upset with the officiating crew for the lack of balance in the game. His frustrations bubbled over, leading to his dismissal from the game.
“When the disparity’s that great, you’ve got to stick up for your guys.” – Kenny Atkinson
Despite the challenges faced during the match, Miami’s Erik Spoelstra emphasized his team’s growth and adaptability throughout the season. Spoelstra shared his belief that his players were ready to develop and thrive amid the unknown.
“I’m just embracing the unknown, embracing the confidence guys are gaining in what we’re doing.” – Erik Spoelstra
The night wasn’t solely about celebrating the Heat and Cavaliers. It would turn out to be a historic night for basketball in the Sunshine State. Just a few hours earlier, Desmond Bane had done the same, sinking an important three-pointer to lead the Orlando Magic to their own victory over the Portland Trail Blazers. This rare occurrence of multiple buzzer-beaters happening in the same state on the same day added to the excitement of Monday’s basketball lineup.
Miami pulled off the dramatic upset 140-138. The playoffs pits teams against each other as they each claim their right to glory in the best of the rest, early playoff rounds. Cavaliers victory stood out during the playoffs for just how dominant their offensive firepower was. It sent a powerful signal to Miami that they needed to make major changes moving forward.
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