Trae Young put on a stellar performance, dishing out a career-high 22 assists and scoring 20 points to lead the Atlanta Hawks to a 135-124 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers. This marks the second loss of the season for the Cavaliers, who now stand at 17-2 and suffered their first defeat in 11 home games. Young’s impressive play was complemented by De’Andre Hunter’s 26 points and Jalen Johnson’s 22 points, as the Hawks executed crucial plays in the closing moments to secure the win.
Despite Young not having his best shooting night, going 6 of 18 from the field, his playmaking ability was on full display as he set up his teammates for scoring opportunities. The victory not only snapped a three-game losing streak for Atlanta but also showcased their ability to secure important road wins, having previously defeated the Boston Celtics on the road earlier in the season.
On the other side, the Cavaliers, who had been dominant at home, built a significant lead early in the game but were unable to maintain their advantage. Donovan Mitchell led the team with 30 points, while Evan Mobley contributed 22 points and 13 rebounds in the losing effort. Cleveland was aiming to make history by starting the season with an 18-1 record or better, but fell short against a determined Hawks squad.
In a key moment late in the game, Young redeemed himself after a turnover by hitting a deep 3-pointer to extend Atlanta’s lead and ultimately secure the victory. The matchup between the two teams was intense and sets the stage for their upcoming “Black Friday” NBA Cup game in Atlanta. The Hawks currently hold a 2-1 record in Group C, while the Cavaliers are looking to improve upon their 1-1 record in pool play as they prepare for the rematch.
The game showcased the talent and competitive spirit of both teams, with Young’s record-setting performance standing out as a highlight of the night. As the NBA season progresses, fans can expect more thrilling matchups and standout performances from top players in the league. The Hawks’ victory over the Cavaliers serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of basketball and the excitement that each game brings to fans and players alike.
