Cleveland CavaliersOpen full analysis
Portland Trail BlazersOpen full analysis
The Cleveland Cavaliers dominated the Portland Trail Blazers 130–111 on February 1 at Moda Center, with Jarrett Allen leading the way on 40 points while Skylar Merrill added 22 in a decisive road victory. Cleveland's offensive efficiency proved overwhelming, shooting 54.9% from the field and draining 16 three-pointers while generating 41 assists on their way to a 127.0 offensive rating that far outpaced Portland's 102.5. The Cavaliers' third quarter proved pivotal, outscoring Portland 41–30 to seize control; they also forced 15 steals and limited turnovers to just 13 compared to Portland's 22 giveaways. Portland's C. Love and S. Sharpe scored 21 and 20 points respectively, but the Trail Blazers shot only 44.9% from the field and managed just 14 three-pointers in a lopsided affair that fell short of the Vegas total of 228.5. Cleveland's suffocating defense, holding Portland to a 102.5 offensive rating while committing only 13 turnovers, underscored their superiority. The victory solidifies Cleveland's position atop the Eastern Conference as they continue their strong form.
