In a New Year’s Eve showdown, the Cleveland Cavaliers dominated the Los Angeles Lakers, cruising to a 122-110 victory to extend their winning streak to eight games. The game, which marked LeBron James’ first appearance since turning 40, saw the Cavaliers showcase their offensive firepower, led by Donovan Mitchell’s 26 points and Jarrett Allen’s season-high 27 points.
Despite a valiant effort from Austin Reaves, who matched his career-high with 35 points, 10 assists, and 9 rebounds, the Lakers couldn’t overcome the Cavaliers’ relentless attack. Lakers headcoach JJ Redick, reflecting on the game, emphasized the need for the Lakers, and NBA teams in general, to play “close to perfect basketball” to beat the Cavaliers this season.
“You know, we didn’t get a stop coming out of the timeout and it was 114-107, but Austin had a great look after timeout play, I live with that, it was wide open top of the key and he’s having a night so could have cut it to four right there, we certainly had our chances and really believe this against teams as good as Cleveland you have to play close to perfect basketball.”
JJ Redick says you have to play “close to perfect basketball” if you expect to beat the Cleveland Cavaliers this season.
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) January 1, 2025
The Lakers managed to cut the deficit to eight points in the final minutes, but Allen’s back-to-back layups sealed the game for the Cavaliers. Redick’s comments highlight the challenge the Lakers face in competing against top-tier teams and the level of precision required to secure a win.
