In a thrilling encounter on Friday night, the Atlanta Hawks demonstrated their formidable depth by outclassing the Cleveland Cavaliers with a convincing 117-101 victory in the NBA Cup. Not only did this game mark the second defeat for the Cavaliers in three days at the hands of the Hawks, but it also confirmed Atlanta’s dominance within East Group C of the NBA Cup following a fortuitous result in another match. De’Andre Hunter emerged as a key contributor off the bench, dropping 23 points and showcasing the Hawks’ scoring versatility which has become a hallmark of their play style this season.
The Hawks’ win can largely be attributed to exceptional individual plays from various team members. Trae Young showcased his all-around talent with a well-rounded performance, contributing 21 points and dishing out 11 assists. His ability to reclaim the spotlight as the league’s leading playmaker—averaging 12.5 assists per game—remains unmatched, especially as he enjoys a remarkable run where he has averaged 15.3 assists over his last six games. This feat places him in elite company, becoming only the second player in the last three decades to average such numbers against the league’s top team, a distinction he shares with the likes of Chris Paul.
However, it wasn’t just Young’s brilliance that secured the victory; Jalen Johnson also made his mark with a solid display, registering 17 points alongside nine rebounds and seven assists. The Hawks’ bench notably outscored their counterpart’s reserves by a substantial 50-28, emphasizing the depth that many teams in the league often overlook.
After a closely contested first half that saw Atlanta leading modestly at 52-50, the Hawks unleashed a remarkable offensive display in the third quarter, outscoring Cleveland 39-23. Clint Capela was instrumental during this surge with his ability to convert on consecutive possessions, pushing the lead to double digits and altering the game’s momentum. This 39-point quarter not only matched their seasonal high for a single quarter but also underscored their capabilities when firing on all cylinders.
The Cavaliers, despite boasting the best record in the NBA at 17-3, struggled to keep pace with the Hawks, as they failed to match their opponent’s scoring depth and defensive efforts. Darius Garland led Cleveland with a commendable 29 points, while Evan Mobley added 24, showcasing his athleticism with seven powerful dunks. Nevertheless, the collective scoring from Atlanta’s roster proved too overwhelming.
As the Hawks prepare to take on the Charlotte Hornets in their next outing, their recent performance bodes well for continued success. With pivotal players excelling and a bench that has proven capable of stepping up, Atlanta will aim to maintain this momentum. As they embrace the challenges ahead, the Hawks are not only cultivating a winning mentality but also asserting their position in the league as serious contenders. This blend of skill, depth, and growing chemistry will be essential as they navigate the rigors of the season.