Sam Merrill’s Nine Triples Ignite Cavs’ 138-113 Win Over Wizards

Cleveland Cavaliers showcased an impressive performance with a dominant 138-113 victory over the Washington Wizards. The standout player was Sam Merrill, whose remarkable shooting made a significant impact during the game.

Sam Merrill’s Dominance

Sam Merrill had a historic night, scoring 32 points with a remarkable nine triples. This feat marked his career high and brought him just two shots shy of the franchise record of 11 three-pointers held by Kyrie Irving. Merrill’s shooting clinic came during a crucial second-quarter stretch, where he scored 17 points and helped the Cavaliers maintain their lead.

Cavaliers’ Early Lead

The game started strong for Cleveland as they established a 21-5 lead within the first four minutes. They hit six of their first seven shots, setting a pace that put pressure on the Wizards from the get-go. By the end of the first quarter, the Cavs held a comfortable 16-point lead, with a methodical offensive approach rather than a chaotic one.

Key Players Contributing

• Jarrett Allen: He played a crucial role with 21 points, nine rebounds, and two blocks. He asserted dominance in the paint, especially with the Wizards missing their star center, Alex Sarr.
• Donovan Mitchell: Mitchell added 30 points, showcasing his scoring and playmaking skills throughout the game.

Wizards’ Struggles

Despite the Wizards’ efforts, which included a brief comeback led by Sharife Cooper, they were unable to take control of the game. Cooper’s 11 points in the second quarter momentarily narrowed the gap, but Cleveland quickly responded to stabilize their lead.

Game Flow and Momentum Shifts

The third quarter saw the Wizards launch a 12-2 run, cutting Cleveland’s lead to just five points. However, the Cavaliers maintained their composure. After facing adversity, Cleveland answered with a solid performance, recapturing the momentum.

Conclusion and Upcoming Schedule

This victory for the Cavaliers solidified their standing as a strong team in the league. Their next matchup will be against the Brooklyn Nets on February 19, after a well-deserved break. The atmosphere in Rocket Arena promises to remain electric as Cleveland embraces its new era.