The Cleveland Cavaliers’ impressive start to the 2024-25 NBA season hit new heights Wednesday night as they secured their 13th consecutive win by defeating the Philadelphia 76ers, 114-106. Led by Donovan Mitchell’s clutch fourth-quarter performance and Darius Garland’s team-high 25 points, Cleveland etched their name into the NBA record books, becoming only the sixth team in league history to open a season with a 13-0 record.
This historic start has the Cavaliers now viewed as a formidable force in the Eastern Conference. With a well-rounded roster, anchored by All-Star-level play from Mitchell and Garland and the defensive prowess of Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, Cleveland is positioning itself as a legitimate championship contender.
Donovan Mitchell’s Clutch Fourth-Quarter Play Seals the Win
Facing an undermanned but resilient 76ers squad, the Cavaliers had to rely on late-game heroics from Mitchell, who scored 13 of his 23 points in the fourth quarter to put the game out of reach. Despite being visibly frustrated with a momentary lapse in judgment — passing out of a wide-open dunk while chasing his first career triple-double — Mitchell quickly refocused and hit several crucial three-pointers that ultimately clinched the victory.
Acknowledging his mistake post-game, Mitchell told reporters, “It was a selfish moment. … We all have those moments, but I apologize to Cav fans, to my teammates. That’s not me.” His candid reflection highlighted his leadership and commitment to team-first basketball, a quality that has become a driving force for Cleveland’s success.
Darius Garland’s Steady Leadership Guides Cleveland
While Mitchell’s scoring spree in the fourth quarter was critical, it was Garland’s steady hand that kept the Cavaliers competitive throughout the night. Leading the team with 25 points, Garland emphasized the mindset that has propelled Cleveland’s undefeated start, saying, “We know we’ve got a target on our back, so we’ve got to come in with that aggressiveness and that confidence that we’re going to win every game.” Garland’s poise and resilience have set the tone for a team that is not just winning but finding ways to improve with each outing.
Overcoming an Undermanned Philadelphia Squad
Although Philadelphia entered the game without key players Tyrese Maxey, Paul George, and Joel Embiid, the 76ers put up a valiant fight against the league’s hottest team. Rookie Jared McCain led the charge with a career-high 34 points, the most by any rookie this season, keeping the 76ers within reach for much of the game. However, Cleveland’s depth and sheer talent ultimately prevailed as they maintained a steady lead throughout the fourth quarter.
The Cavaliers’ ability to pull out a win, even as Philadelphia surged with a strong showing from a depleted roster, underscored the team’s resolve and adaptability. Cleveland head coach Kenny Atkinson acknowledged the need for more intensity at halftime, noting, “They just weren’t feeling us. They were running where they wanted to.” Following this pep talk, the Cavaliers emerged with increased physicality, which allowed them to set the tempo and secure the win.
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A Historic Start with Championship Potential
With a 13-0 record, Cleveland joins an exclusive club. Of the previous five teams to start a season with 13 straight wins, four went on to reach the NBA Finals, although only the 1993-94 Houston Rockets clinched the championship. As the Cavaliers continue their streak, they not only build momentum but also fuel championship aspirations.
Yet, despite the historic start, Cleveland’s players and coaches remain grounded. Reflecting on the journey so far, Mitchell commented, “I keep telling everybody, let’s relax. It’s November. We’re not winning a championship right now. But these are good tests.” His balanced outlook demonstrates the team’s commitment to focusing on the long term and building the habits necessary to succeed in the postseason.
NBA STANDINGS UPDATE ‼️
▪️ CLE moves to 13-0, 6th best start ever
▪️ OKC and BOS tally 10th wins
▪️ ORL wins 4th straight, 6-0 at home
▪️ LAL wins 3rd straight, 6-0 at home pic.twitter.com/yYBV37Q7Kh— NBA (@NBA) November 14, 2024
Defensive Dominance Anchored by Mobley and Allen
The Cavaliers’ success is not solely a product of their offensive firepower. Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen have been cornerstones on defense, effectively anchoring the team in the paint and making it difficult for opponents to score inside. In Wednesday’s game, Cleveland’s defense was instrumental in stifling the 76ers’ undermanned roster, as Mobley and Allen asserted their dominance around the basket.
Cleveland’s defense has consistently pressured opponents, and the team’s chemistry on that end of the court is one of the driving forces behind their perfect start. The ability to maintain defensive intensity is likely to be a deciding factor in Cleveland’s continued success, especially against stronger opponents down the stretch.
The Cavaliers Embrace the Challenge
With their impressive start, the Cavaliers have found themselves the target of each opponent’s best effort, a new reality for a team still in the process of establishing itself as a contender. Mitchell expressed appreciation for the challenge, stating, “If you want to be the best, you’ve got to beat the best. … We’re hunting, but it’s also November.” The Cavaliers are embracing the process, aware that there is still room for growth before they reach their full potential.
In the coming weeks, Cleveland will face stronger competition, including a high-stakes matchup against the defending champion Boston Celtics. If they can continue to perform at this high level, they will solidify their position among the league’s elite and gain valuable experience in handling the pressure that comes with championship aspirations.
Building Toward Something Bigger
The Cleveland Cavaliers’ 13-0 start is more than just an impressive win streak; it’s a testament to the team’s unity, talent, and resilience. Led by the scoring prowess of Donovan Mitchell and the leadership of Darius Garland, Cleveland is showing they have the pieces to compete with the NBA’s best. Their defensive foundation, coupled with a versatile offense, has made them a team to watch as they continue to evolve and adapt to the challenges of an 82-game season.
While the Cavaliers are rightly proud of their historic start, they understand that a championship is not won in November. Instead, each victory serves as a building block for the ultimate goal. With a blend of seasoned stars, emerging talents, and a grounded mindset, Cleveland is positioning itself as a formidable contender in the Eastern Conference — and possibly, the league.
