CLEVELAND — In a standout performance, Donovan Mitchell registered a remarkable 37 points, while Darius Garland contributed 29 points, leading the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 144-126 victory over the Chicago Bulls on Friday night during an NBA Cup contest. With this win, the Cavaliers improved their record to a flawless 14-0, marking one of the best starts in NBA history.
Cleveland is now the sixth team to achieve a 14-0 record, and they are the first since the Golden State Warriors commenced the 2015-16 season with an impressive 24-0 run. Notably, this 14-game winning streak is the longest in the history of the Cavaliers, surpassing their previous three 13-game winning streaks achieved during LeBron James’s tenure with the team.
The Cavaliers also saw significant contributions from Jarrett Allen, who added 24 points, and Caris LeVert, who finished with 22 points. Remarkably, the team has maintained its unbeaten streak under the guidance of first-year coach Kenny Atkinson. The Bulls’ Coby White led his team with 29 points, while Nikola Vucevic chipped in 25 points. Despite a late surge from the Bulls, which saw them pull within four points after Ayo Dosunmu’s dunk with just under three minutes remaining, the Cavaliers responded emphatically with LeVert and Mitchell hitting crucial three-pointers, closing the game with a 21-7 run.
Notably, the Cavaliers were without starting forward Evan Mobley, who has been dealing with an illness that kept him sidelined.
**Key Takeaways**
For the Bulls, who are recognized as the fastest-paced team in the league based on offensive statistics, this game highlighted their struggles, as they took too many rushed shots and had numerous unproductive possessions that ultimately led to their defeat. Conversely, the Cavaliers demonstrated resilience whether playing at home or on the road, showing a high level of energy and teamwork that has only served to bolster their confidence and cohesion under Atkinson, who inherited a talented roster and has further improved their dynamics.
**Key Moment**
Donovan Mitchell displayed his leadership by coming alive at the start of the fourth quarter, immediately hitting a three-pointer and scoring the first nine points for Cleveland in that period. He tallied a total of 18 points in the last quarter alone, effectively sealing the victory for the Cavaliers.
**Key Stat**
The Cavaliers set a new franchise record by scoring 49 points in the first quarter of the game, demonstrating their offensive prowess right from the start.
**Upcoming Games**
Looking ahead, the Cavaliers will host the Houston Rockets on Sunday, coinciding with the day they will also face the Charlotte Hornets.