SACRAMENTO, Calif. — James Harden wasted no time making an impact. In a thrilling showdown, he helped the Cleveland Cavaliers secure a 132-126 victory over the struggling Sacramento Kings. This win marked Cleveland’s third straight and their eighth in nine games.
Cavs coach Kenny Atkinson shared his thoughts: “We have a confidence about us now. There’s no panic.” His team remained cool even with Sacramento making impressive shots. The calmness in critical moments really paid off, especially with stars like Harden and Donovan Mitchell on the court.
The game had a slow start for both Harden and the Cavs. While Harden awaited his trade from Los Angeles, he couldn’t practice with Cleveland. Early on, the team fell behind 15-8, prompting Atkinson’s first timeout. They ended the first quarter down 31-25.
But Cleveland quickly bounced back. An energizing 15-2 run at the start of the second quarter put them ahead. Dennis Schroder and Keon Ellis, recent additions to the team, sparked this turnaround. “They just wreak havoc,” Mitchell said about the new players. By halftime, the Cavs led by two after outscoring the Kings 32-24 in the second.
The third quarter mirrored the first, with Cleveland struggling for rhythm. However, with determination, the Cavs fought back to regain the lead briefly thanks to their revamped bench, despite trailing by three entering the fourth.
In the final quarter, Mitchell ignited the scoring, netting the first 11 points for Cleveland. Harden rejoined the game, and his transition three-pointer flipped the scoreboard. The Kings responded with a brief lead, but the Cavs countered with an 8-0 run, capped by another three from Harden.
Sacramento’s young talent, led by Nique Clifford with 30 points, kept the game tight. DeMar DeRozan momentarily tied the game with a clutch three. Yet, Mitchell drew fouls and scored from the line, while Harden sealed the win with free throws.
Harden finished with 23 points, 15 of which came in the fourth quarter. “I just have to figure it out,” he remarked, emphasizing his adaptability. His contribution in critical moments showcased his experience and skill.
Interestingly, Mitchell and Harden made history as the first Cavs teammates to each score at least 15 points in the fourth quarter since 1996-97, according to Elias Sports Bureau. The chemistry between these two is a promising sign for the team.
Jarrett Allen also made his mark, contributing 29 points and 10 rebounds. The Kings had several players scoring in double figures, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Cleveland’s late-game surge.
Looking ahead, the Cavs aim to build on this win as they prepare for their next challenge against the Denver Nuggets. Coach Atkinson believes there are plenty of positives, stating, “It’s a work in progress.” As this team combines talent and determination, fans can anticipate exciting developments in the games to come.
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