UPDATE: In a thrilling matchup, the Cleveland Cavaliers triumphed over the Milwaukee Bucks with a score of 118-106 Monday night, but the game took a dramatic turn when superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo exited early due to injury.
Just moments into the game, Antetokounmpo suffered a left groin strain and was ruled out by halftime, logging only 13 minutes on the court. His absence shifted the momentum in favor of the Cavaliers, who have now secured three wins in their last four games.
The Bucks initially surged ahead, quickly leading 11-2 in the first quarter. Despite the early setback, Donovan Mitchell shined brightly, scoring 14 points in the opening period and finishing the night with a game-high 37 points on 14 of 22 shooting. The Cavaliers had to claw back from behind, but as Antetokounmpo left the game, their path to victory became clearer.
The critical turning point came when the Cavaliers launched a 14-6 run to start the second quarter, finally seizing their first lead of the night. As the game progressed, the Bucks, despite missing their star, remained competitive, leading to a tense third quarter filled with eight lead changes and four ties.
However, the Cavaliers broke away in the fourth quarter with an 8-3 surge, expanding their lead to nine points at the eight-minute mark. As fatigue set in for the Bucks, the Cavaliers capitalized with a late-game flurry that sealed the victory.
Behind Mitchell’s stellar performance, the Cavaliers also saw contributions from Sam Merrill with 20 points, and other key players including Jarrett Allen (12 points), Evan Mobley (14 points), Craig Porter Jr. (11 points), and De’Andre Hunter (11 points). The Bucks were led by Ryan Rollins, who scored 24 points, with Myles Turner adding 15 points.
This matchup was anticipated as a clash between two of the NBA’s elite, with both Mitchell and Antetokounmpo considered top MVP candidates. The injury to Antetokounmpo raises concerns for the Bucks as they navigate the rest of the season.
Looking ahead, the Cavaliers will continue their homestand on Wednesday, November 1, 2023, against the Houston Rockets, with tipoff scheduled for 7 p.m.. Fans will be eager to see if Mitchell can maintain his form and how the Bucks will adjust without their star player.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
