The Cleveland Cavaliers have matched their longest season-opening win streak in franchise history by securing their eighth consecutive victory, a 116-114 thriller against the Milwaukee Bucks. This achievement ties the record set during the 1976-77 season and showcases the Cavaliers’ strong start this season, highlighted by Darius Garland’s impressive performance.
Cavaliers Secure Record with Garland’s Heroics
Darius Garland led the Cavaliers with a game-high 39 points, including a critical three-pointer with just 45 seconds left. He followed it up by assisting Jarrett Allen for a layup with 12.2 seconds remaining, sealing the narrow victory. Reflecting on the achievement, Garland remarked, “It’s hard to get one [win] so eight is crazy,” emphasizing the rarity of such a streak.
The Bucks, missing star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo due to injury, leaned heavily on Damian Lillard, who scored 36 points. Despite Lillard’s best efforts, the Bucks fell short, extending their losing streak to six games. Just days earlier, the Cavaliers also narrowly defeated the Bucks 114-113, with Donovan Mitchell securing the win on a buzzer-beater.
Thunder and Warriors Continue Streaks, Pistons Break Their Slump
Meanwhile, the Oklahoma City Thunder maintained their unbeaten record with a seventh straight win, defeating the Orlando Magic 102-86. Jalen Williams led the scoring for the Thunder with 23 points, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander added 21 points to the team’s tally.
In other action, Stephen Curry returned to the court after a three-game absence, helping the Golden State Warriors beat the Washington Wizards 125-112. Curry scored 24 points, lifting the Warriors to a 4-0 record on the road this season.
After a challenging start, the Detroit Pistons snapped a seven-game losing streak by defeating the Los Angeles Lakers 115-103. Jaden Ivey scored 26 points, while Cade Cunningham notched a triple-double with 17 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists. The Lakers’ Anthony Davis, playing through an ankle issue, scored a game-high 37 points in the defeat.
Durant and Celtics Shine in Other Key Games
Kevin Durant delivered a stellar 35-point performance for the Phoenix Suns, leading them to a narrow 118-116 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers. In Atlanta, the Boston Celtics had a dominant showing, defeating the Hawks 123-93.
The Cavaliers’ winning streak and solid start set the tone for an exciting season. If they continue at this level, they could potentially break more franchise records and become top contenders in their division.
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