Cavaliers dominate Heat to extend playoff lead to 2-0
- The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Miami Heat 121-112 in a playoff game, taking a 2-0 series lead.
- Donovan Mitchell scored 30 points, including key points in the fourth quarter, while Tyler Herro led Miami with 33 points.
- The Cavaliers aim to maintain their momentum in Game 3, which will be held in Miami on Saturday.
In the United States, on Wednesday night, the Cleveland Cavaliers secured a significant victory against the Miami Heat, leading to a 2-0 advantage in their Eastern Conference first-round playoff series. The game concluded with a score of 121-112, highlighted by an impressive performance from Donovan Mitchell, who scored 30 points, including 17 crucial points in the fourth quarter. Despite the Cavaliers establishing a substantial lead earlier in the game, the Heat mounted a significant comeback in the second half, narrowing the gap to just two points at 105-103 with just over three minutes remaining in the game, showcasing their resilience. The Cavaliers started strong, overcoming an initial 16-7 deficit to take control of the game in the first half. Their offensive display was remarkable, setting an NBA playoff record with 11 three-pointers in the second quarter. By the end of the first quarter, they led 25-24, and they further extended their lead with a commanding 17-4 run that allowed them to dominate the game for significant stretches. Evan Mobley and Darius Garland also made key contributions, with Mobley scoring 20 points and Garland adding 19. The Miami Heat did not go down without a fight. Tyler Herro had a standout performance, scoring 33 points, and played a vital role in the Heat's second-half resurgence. The comeback was sparked by a series of fast points, including a 25-8 run that got them within striking distance. However, Donovan Mitchell's clutch performance down the stretch, scoring eight consecutive points for the Cavaliers, ultimately secured their victory and set the stage for the upcoming Game 3. With the series now shifting back to Miami for Game 3 on Saturday afternoon, the Cavaliers will aim to maintain their momentum, while the Heat will look to rebound and even the series at home. The context of both teams' performances suggests a highly competitive series ahead, with the Cavaliers sitting at the top of the Eastern Conference and Miami fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive.