Instant Reaction: Cavs Hold Off Nuggets, Win 110-101

Cleveland seemed determined to make a statement to their critics against the Nuggets, as they came out on fire.

The Cavs took a double-digit lead early in the 1st quarter and cruised for most of the game, but Denver fought back and cut the lead to six in the 4th. However, Cleveland made the plays down the stretch when they needed to and pulled out the victory.

Turning Point: 

This game was one-sided throughout because of the focus and energy the Cavaliers played with from the opening whistle. They started the game on a 24-9 run to blow the game wide open.

Key Stat:

Just one game after the Cavaliers finished with six assists as a team in a loss to the Jazz, they finished with 25 team assists tonight. Their ball movement was much improved on the offensive end of the floor, which led to having seven different players scoring in double-figures.

Cleveland MVP: 

LeBron took over as the Cavs' primary ball-handler, and played his best game of the season. He finished with 22 points and 11 assists on the night, but his biggest impact was again felt in his overall on-court leadership.

Denver MVP: 

Randy Foye came off the bench to score 28 points and hand out nine assists for the Nuggets. He was not only the statistical leader for this team, but he was the only reason they stayed somewhat in the game throughout.

What Did We Learn? 

Cleveland is a really, really good offensive team when they move the ball, which they did tonight with LeBron being the primary ball-handler for most of the game instead of Irving. That may be something the Cavs have to do - at least early in the season - to reach their potential and be as successful as they can be.

Dion Waiters was also extremely effective off the bench and gave Cleveland a scoring punch when the starters got some much needed rest. He can allow for the Cavs to keep the pressure on the opponent's defense at all times, and they'll probably keep him in this role for the rest of the season.

As for Denver, we learned that they have a bunch of guys who are good players, but they're all very similar and don't play well together. Having talented players is one thing, and the Nuggets have a plethora of them. The problem is they don't have that difference maker they need.

What’s Next? 

Cleveland has the weekend off before facing New Orleans at home on Monday, while the Nuggets will try for their second win of the season Sunday night in Portland against the Trail Blazers.

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