After dropping their first two games of the season, the Cleveland Cavaliers finally got in the win column in dominant fashion with a 126-104 victory over the Indiana Pacers on the road. It was a much-needed response from a team with playoff aspirations, and they delivered a performance that showcased their offensive firepower and defensive intensity.
Cleveland came out aggressive from the opening tip, pushing the pace and attacking the paint. The backcourt duo of Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell set the tone early, combining for 37 points in the first half. Garland orchestrated the offense with his usual poise, finishing with 21 points and 9 assists, while Mitchell poured in a team-high 32 points, hitting shots from all over the court, including four makes from beyond the arc.
The Cavaliers’ frontcourt was equally impressive. Evan Mobley was active on both ends, grabbing 11 rebounds to go along with 16 points, while Jarrett Allen added 14 points and 10 rebounds of his own, protecting the rim and anchoring the defense. The Cavs’ length and athleticism caused problems for Indiana all night, forcing tough shots and controlling the glass with a 48-37 rebounding advantage.
One of the most encouraging signs for Cleveland was the performance of their bench. Caris LeVert and Georges Niang provided a spark, combining for 25 points and hitting several timely shots to halt any momentum the Pacers tried to build. The bench unit moved the ball well and kept up the defensive pressure, showing that the Cavaliers have the depth to compete on both ends even when the starters are off the floor.
For Indiana, Tyrese Haliburton led the way with 24 points and 8 assists, but the rest of the team struggled to find any rhythm. The Pacers shot just 42% from the field and were held to 10-of-34 from three-point range. Cleveland’s perimeter defense, which had been suspect in their previous two games, took a big step forward, closing out aggressively and limiting open looks.
Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff praised his team’s effort after the game, noting their energy, focus, and ball movement. “This is who we can be when we play together and commit on the defensive end,” he said. “We knew we had to come out strong tonight, and the guys answered the call.”
The win gives Cleveland a confidence boost as they try to find their footing early in the season. With their first win now secured, they’ll look to build momentum and continue developing chemistry. The Cavs return home next to face the Chicago Bulls in what promises to be another test against an Eastern Conference rival.
For now, though, the Cavaliers can breathe a little easier. They’re officially on the board—and they did it in style.
