The Cavaliers started the game strong and were able to build a 16 points lead. But as usual they managed to let all go in the third quarter and the Mavs tied the game at 63.
But this time, Mo Williams (14 points, 6 assists) came to the rescue and started the fourth quarter with four jumpers, including a 3-pointer, and delivered two assists to lead a 13-0 run.
“That’s what they expect,” said Williams, acquired in August to ease the load off James. “Tonight was a great sign. It was a long summer for me, two surgeries. I expected to get going kind of slow, but it was frustrating when you’re used to making shots, making plays.”
“It’s a nice win, a good way to close out the road trip,” said James, who finished with a season-high 29 points despite shooting only 8-of-20.
“It’s all about defense,” James added. “We took a stand. When they tied it up, we buckled down and worked defensively. Then we made some shots. I didn’t shoot the ball particularly well, like I know I can. I was in attack mode all night, but I missed some shots I know I can make.”
The Cavaliers led by as many as 25 points and outrebounded the Mavericks 52-35. Ben Wallace and Verajao held Dirk Nowitzki to only eight points.
“You’re not going to totally stop Dirk Nowitzki, but the combination of Ben Wallace and Anderson Varejao did about as good a job on Dirk as I’ve seen since he’s been in the league,” Cleveland coach Mike Brown said.
Zydrunas Ilgauskas had 17 points and 11 rebounds. Delonte West added 14 points and Wally Szczerbiak had 10. Wallace didn’t score, but had 13 rebounds.
The Cavaliers return home, where they’ll play five of the next six games at Quicken Loans Arena.
Mike Brown on Allen Iverson Trade:
“It’s good for both teams. A.I. is more of scoring point guard than Chauncey, but how does it change the Pistons? I don’t know. I’m just like a fan, it’ll be interesting to see. But I think they both got what they wanted – Chauncey’s going home and the Pistons got somebody they think will put points on the board.â€
NBA highlights From November 3rd
[youtube width=”400″ height=”343″]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ud8QfXhtLy4[/youtube]