After downing two games straight, the Cleveland Cavaliers (16-7), were looking to snap that streak Friday night against the injury filled Portland Trail Blazers.
Just as expected, the Cavs got off to a good start from Mo (who was a game time decision along with Andy - due to a stomach virus) and LeBron.
The good start didn't last too long. Martell Webster, someone that doesn't even average double figures for the Blazers, hit some very big 3-point shots, scoring 13-points in the first quarter!
Despite Cleveland having a buster make shots, they dominated the paint early in the game scoring almost 20-points straight down-low before Portland could give any answers.
The second quarter looked as if the Cavs were going to top 20-turnovers again. Mike Brown, who was ejected from the Cavs last game Vs. Houston, was extremely upset. Without a doubt, I was also upset. They got out-scored 31-19 by the SHORT-HANDED team.
At half time the Cavs trailed by 9. Throughout the season, the 3rd quarter has been problematic for Cleveland; however when they came out and it was clearly a new team.
Lead by King James (who absolutely took over the 3rd quarter) the Cavs went on a big run. La'Marcus Aldridge was constantly annoyed by Varejao, since he couldn't finish at the rim.
Shaq's presence was thrown out in the 3rd quarter. He was scratched in the eye and left the game with 14-points 11-boards and 4/4 at the free-throw line.
Throughout the end of the 3rd I was able to smile. The Cavs tied the game after they were down by as many as 12-points.
Everyone knows that LeBron takes his break in the 4th quarter, but that wasn't much of a problem. Varejao held it down for the Cavs.
Playing off of broken plays and moving without the basketball in his hands. He finished with a season-high 22-points and doubled up with 10-rebounds.
He was clearly the X-factor in the Cavs 104-99 win of the Blazers.
LeBron flirted with a triple double pouring in 33-points 7-rebounds and 7-assist.
Mo Williams also had a good game, stocking up with 14-points and 10-assist.
The Cavs get right back on the road to visit Kevin Durant and the Thunder.
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