Jazz Fall to Cavaliers 116-124 Through Improbable Bench Performance
On the first of a lengthy five-game road trip, the Utah Jazz couldn’t get it done against the Cleveland Cavaliers in a 116-124 loss. While Cleveland was without the services of All-Star Donovan Mitchell (sidelined in this matchup due to injury), they had no problem finding that production elsewhere.
The biggest story of the night came from the Cavaliers’ bench, which saw some impressive performances across the board. Sam Merrill led the way in scoring for the team as well as the entire game, putting up a stellar 27 points, three rebounds, and two assists on an absurd eight three-pointers. It was also the best scoring output of his career, surpassing his previous highest mark of 19, which he achieved just last game against the Houston Rockets.
We also saw notable contributions from Caris LeVert, Georges Niang, and Tristan Thompson for the Cavs, who all scored in double-digits after coming off the bench. LeVert especially stood out with his 23 points and seven rebounds on the night. As a unit, the Cavalier bench combined for an impressive 75 points.
For the Jazz, it was a regular day in the office for Lauri Markkanen, as he collected 26 points and ten rebounds, leading Utah in scoring. Collin Sexton also had a respectable night getting the ball in the hoop, scoring 20 points for his sixth consecutive game.
While Utah held their own on the offensive end without Keyonte George or Jordan Clarkson in the lineup, they got dominated from outside, as the Cavs drained 23 three-pointers at a 45.1% clip. Combine this with the Jazz losing the rebound and turnover battles (52-47, 16-11), and it’s going to be difficult to come out with a W.
The Jazz will have the opportunity to rebound during their second game of the road trip in a back-to-back vs. the Detroit Pistons. Considering it’s a squad that’s been unable to come out with a victory in any of their past 24 games, this next one is a must-win for Utah.
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