Cavs: With no Collin Sexton the Cavaliers roll to a win over the Bulls

Mar 24, 2021; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward Cedi Osman (16) shoots the ball against Chicago Bulls forward Lauri Markkanen (24) during the second half at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 24, 2021; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward Cedi Osman (16) shoots the ball against Chicago Bulls forward Lauri Markkanen (24) during the second half at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Cavs didn’t need their star player to beat the Bulls on Wednesday night, defeating them 103-94. Without Sexton in the lineup, Cedi Osman got the start but didn’t replace his production. Isaac Okoro and Jarrett Allen had great nights, with Okoro going 5-7 for 12 points, and Allen going 9-12 for 19.

The big star of the game though for the Cavs was Larry Nance, who went 5-11 from the floor, and 2-4 from three-point, while putting up 14 points, 14 rebounds, five assists, two steals, and one block. It was a showcase night for what he brings to a team. He’ll never be the star scorer but he is easily the best all-around player on the roster.

The Bulls had solid performances from their two young stars in Zach LaVine and Lauri Markkanen, with LaVine putting up 22 points on 8-20 shooting from the floor and 4-9 from three. Markkanen went 7-15 from the floor (1-5 from three) and put up 17 points. The Bulls couldn’t get enough help from everyone else, with only two other players (Tomas Satoransky and Coby White) putting up 11 points each to finish tied for fourth on the team with points in the game.

Top 3 Game Performers

1 Point – Jarrett Allen

Jarrett Allen is still developing and isn’t routinely dominating games. The hope is he will, but what he does bring to the table on a regular enough basis is his stellar defense and his ability to finish at the rim. His 19 points and nine rebounds were every bit needed tonight.

2 Points – Darius Garland

Darius Garland stepped up in a big way, with his 22 points. Garland’s play was more needed without Collin Sexton in the lineup. While he and Sexton may not be the greatest tandem due to similar shortcomings, they do show at times to be able to take over games.

3 Points – Larry Nance Jr.

The Swiss Army Nance strikes again. A genuine two-way player, who can make an impact on both sides of the court, Nance stepped up in a big way. Including a big second-half block that stifled the Bulls’ attempt to get back into the game.

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