The Cleveland Cavaliers have been one of the biggest success stories in the NBA this season. At 56-10 on the season, they hold the best record in the league. Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland continue to play at a high level, as they are the only backcourt duo in the NBA to both average at least 20 points per game. Mitchell is averaging 24.2 points while Garland is averaging 21.0 points per game.
Stellar backcourt play combined with Evan Mobley’s consistency in the frontcourt has translated to wins for the Cavaliers this season. And Friday night, the Cavaliers picked up another victory, beating the Memphis Grizzlies 133-124.
The Cavaliers have now won 16 games in a row. As the NBA announced on Friday night, that is a new franchise record for the Cavaliers.
This winning streak is the second time this season the Cavaliers have won at least 15 consecutive games. The Cavaliers have already clinched a playoff spot and have also clinched the Central Division. They currently sit 8.5 games ahead of the second place Boston Celtics with 16 games remaining in the regular season.
The Cavaliers own the best home-record in the NBA at 30-4 inside Rocket Arena. Their current 16-game winning streak is also the longest streak for any team this season.
While Mitchell didn’t suit up against the Grizzlies due to a groin injury, his absence isn’t expected to be long-term. Head coach Kenny Atkinson understands Mitchell’s willingness to play banged up, but Atkinson also acknowledged the groin injury isn’t a “huge deal”.
“It’s definitely not something huge…not a huge deal. But I think we err on the side of caution, but he always wants to play,” Atkinson said.
Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland (10) and guard Donovan Mitchell (45)
