Cavs Find a Late Lift From an Unlikely Source in Fourth Quarter Loss Against Hornets
A difficult start for Cleveland
The Cavs struggled to defend the three and control the glass. They gave up 100 points in the first 33 minutes to a Hornets team that averaged 96 points per game and was missing three starters.
Cleveland’s entire starting five was available, yet the team fell behind by 33 points against a 3-7 opponent. James Harden had a difficult day as the Cavs’ problems continued.
Reserves spark a rally
Kenny Atkinson opened the fourth quarter with an all-reserve lineup. Craig Porter Jr., Riley Minix, Meleek Thomas, Norchad Omier and Thomas Bryant responded with a 12-3 run, forcing a quick Hornets timeout.
The run grew to 19-6, and the reserves eventually pulled Cleveland within eight points. That marked a 19-point improvement from the start of the quarter, but the comeback came too late to change the result.
Bright moments, lingering questions
Porter delivered his strongest performance of the season, despite having received limited playmaking opportunities. Thomas showed he could lead, while Bryant offered a reminder of his experience in the league.
The rally made the game watchable, but the loss could bring consequences and increase pressure on Atkinson. The article raises a possible lineup change, noting concerns about Harden playing alongside Donovan Mitchell and the possibility of moving the veteran to the bench.
Key points
- Cleveland fell behind by 33 points despite having its full starting lineup available.
- An all-reserve group opened the fourth quarter with a 12-3 run.
- The Cavs cut the deficit to eight but could not complete the comeback.
- The loss adds pressure around the team and prompts questions about its starting lineup.