Cavaliers-Knicks Game 4 First-Half Notes

The Cleveland Cavaliers and New York Knicks face off in Game 4 of the NBA Playoffs Round One.

Tommy Wild | Apr 23, 2023

Cavaliers-Knicks Game 4 First-Half Notes /

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The Cleveland Cavaliers are looking to avoid going down 3-1 in their series with the New York Knicks.

1. Jalen Brunson Locked In Early

Jalen Brunson didn't get off to a great start on Friday night in Game 3. However, he turned it around in the second half to score 21 points. He's off t a hot start in Game 4 scoring 16 points (6-for-13) in the first half.

2. Cavs Trying To Keep Pace Slow

The Cavs played with the slowest pace of play in the NBA and they found success during the regular season. One of their problems in Game 3 was playing too much to the Knicks' style which is much quicker.

Cleveland is clearly trying to slow the tempo down, especially in transition.

3. Turnovers Continue To Hurt The Cavs

Turnovers hurt Cleveland in Game 3 and they continue to hurt them in Game 4. They gave it away nine times in the first half and the Knicks took advantage of that scoring 11 points off turnovers.

Donovan Mitchell has five turnovers himself which could have easily been avoided. This is the playoffs, weak passes are going to be picked off by the defense.

4. J.B. Bickerstaff With A New Lineup

Isaac Okoro first checked into the game with under two minutes left in the first quarter. However, he didn't check in as the wing or shooting guard, instead, he was essentially the four on the floor.

The season is on the line so they need to do anything to get the team going.

5. Mobley With A Strong First Half.

Mitchell Robinson called out the Cavaliers for being rattled in Game 3 and didn't hold back. Evan Mobley clearly heard this and wanted to make his presence known early in Game 4.

He finished the first half with 10 points and four rebounds.

6. Need More From Mitchell And Garland

Darius Garland finished the first half with 2 points and three assists. Mitchell had nine points on 44 percent shooting. Cleveland needs more from their star players if they want to get back into this game.