The Cavaliers’ ability to pull off late-game heroics falters as they suffer a 132-123 double overtime defeat against the Chicago Bulls.
“We simply didn’t execute enough plays when it counted,” expressed Cavs coach J.B. Bickerstaff. “There are numerous areas where we can improve. We had a chance to seal the game but failed to capitalize on it.”
Before the game, Bickerstaff was questioned about the potential impact of Tuesday’s emotionally charged victory against the Dallas Mavericks. There’s always a human factor to consider. Tuesday’s triumph could have provided a morale boost for the second game of a back-to-back. Conversely, it might have drained their energy, both physically and mentally, leading to a lapse in focus.
Early on, it appeared to be the former scenario.
Cleveland started strong, leading for nearly the entire first quarter and building a lead of up to 12 points. They displayed the right attitude, put in the necessary effort, and performed up to their usual standards.
However, the resilient Bulls continued to fight back, keeping the game close even when the Cavs surged ahead with an 8-0 run to start the fourth quarter, reclaiming a double-digit lead. Chicago pulled ahead by one with under four minutes remaining, and the game was tied with just 38.4 seconds left.
Does this situation sound somewhat familiar?
After Cavs’ All-Star Donovan Mitchell committed a crucial turnover on the final offensive possession—just one of several late-game errors by him—Chicago had an opportunity to snatch the win.
With the shot clock off and less than 20 seconds remaining, veteran DeMar DeRozan faced off against Cavs swingman Max Strus—Tuesday night’s hometown hero who hails from the Chicago suburbs.
Strus once again delivered under pressure, this time on defense, forcing DeRozan into a missed fadeaway as the buzzer sounded, sending the game into overtime.
In the first extra session, Strus showcased his clutch abilities once more, contributing nine points for the Cavs, including a crucial 3-pointer and two assists leading to other triples. These timely contributions seemed to calm nerves and allowed the team to regain composure.
