The Atlanta Hawks secured their second consecutive win over the Cleveland Cavaliers, triumphing 117-101 on Friday in NBA Cup action. De’Andre Hunter led the charge with 23 points off the bench, while Trae Young added 21 points and 11 assists.
Atlanta (9-11) showcased its depth with six players scoring in double figures, outscoring Cleveland’s bench 50-28. The Hawks’ third-quarter surge, fueled by Clint Capela’s three consecutive baskets, extended their lead to double digits, allowing them to pull away.
Jalen Johnson contributed 17 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists, while Onyeka Okongwu added 15 points. Atlanta’s 39-point third quarter matched their season-high for points in a quarter, previously achieved against the New York Knicks.
The Cavaliers (17-3), despite holding the league’s best record, struggled to match Atlanta’s offensive balance. Darius Garland led Cleveland with 29 points, and Evan Mobley added 24 points, including seven dunks. However, the Cavaliers’ reserves and Donovan Mitchell failed to provide the needed support.
Mitchell, who had a tough night, missed his first 10 shots before sinking two late three-pointers. He finished with 12 points on 5-of-23 shooting, adding 11 rebounds but no significant offensive rhythm.
The Hawks capitalized on Cleveland’s struggles, building on their victory earlier in the week when Young set a career-high with 22 assists. Atlanta clinched East Group C in the NBA Cup later in the night when the Chicago Bulls lost to the Boston Celtics.
Capela’s dominance in the paint and Hunter’s efficiency off the bench proved crucial in Atlanta’s success. The Hawks shot 51.8% from the field and connected on 14-of-34 three-point attempts, maintaining consistent offensive pressure throughout the game.
Cleveland, in contrast, managed only 28.9% from beyond the arc and committed 13 turnovers. Caris LeVert, returning from a four-game absence, added eight points but couldn’t provide enough firepower.
