Get ready for some intense NBA action! The Cleveland Cavaliers are on a roll, but their win against the Charlotte Hornets was a nail-biter. Donovan Mitchell, the star of the show, scored an impressive 32 points, with 13 of those coming in the crucial fourth quarter. The Cavs' winning streak now stands at seven, and they've dominated 12 out of their last 13 games. But here's where it gets controversial...
Kon Knueppel, the Hornets' rookie, put up an incredible performance, sinking seven 3-pointers and finishing with 33 points. With 193 made 3s this season, he's just behind Keegan Murray's record of 206 set in the 2022-23 season. It's a rookie sensation!
And this is the part most people miss: the Hornets were missing key players due to suspensions and injuries. Miles Bridges, Moussa Diabate, and Grant Williams were all out, forcing Charlotte to rely on younger, less experienced players. Despite this, they gave the Cavs a run for their money.
Mitchell's physical play in the fourth quarter was a game-changer. He got to the line 13 times and made 12 free throws, sealing the win for Cleveland.
In other NBA action, the Memphis Grizzlies rallied in the second half to beat the Utah Jazz, snapping a four-game losing streak. Meanwhile, the Washington Wizards swept a back-to-back set with the Indiana Pacers, with Alondes Williams putting up career-high numbers.
The Miami Heat dominated the Atlanta Hawks, with Tyler Herro returning from a rib injury and putting up 24 points. And the Minnesota Timberwolves held off the Dallas Mavericks, with Anthony Edwards scoring an MVP-worthy 40 points.
The Milwaukee Bucks, without injured star Giannis Antetokounmpo, pulled away in the fourth quarter to beat the New Orleans Pelicans. And the Oklahoma City Thunder, despite several injuries, including to reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, beat the Brooklyn Nets with balanced scoring.
So, which team's performance surprised you the most? And who do you think will make a comeback in the next round of games? Let's discuss in the comments!