Cavs shoot down Rockets for fifth consecutive victory

Cavs extend streak to season-best five straight wins

The Cleveland Cavaliers made it five consecutive double-digit wins, their longest win streak for the season, after a thorough 124-89 dismantling of the Houston Rockets at home. With the win, the Cavs improved to 18-12 and further legitimizes the hunt for a postseason berth.

Playing in the tail end of the homestand, the end result was never in question for the Cavs as they quickly raced to build a huge margin early, even leading by as much as 45 at one point in the game.

Rising star Darius Garland led all scorers with 21 markers, while Isaac Okoro came out with another 20-point ballgame, as the defensive-minded swingman continued to roll during this win streak, averaging 16.6 points, 3.8 rebounds and 1.4 assists.

Several other Cavaliers figured in another balanced offensive attack, with Lauri Markkanen, Kevin Love, and seldom-used Dean Wade all joining the starting guards to finish with double-figures. Meanwhile, Ricky Rubio managed the floor with another playmaking masterclass with 12 dimes.

Another roadtrip lies ahead for the Cavs

Rookie sensation Evan Mobley was out against the Rockets with a sore hip, but his availability will be crucial going forward with the Cavs embarking on another tough, three-game road trip against several playoff contending teams.

Now six games over .500, the Cavaliers have been overachieving thanks in no small part to the young core performing ahead of schedule, and Mobley has provided a massive boost to that on both ends of the floor.

Winning nine of their previous 11 contests by double-figures, the Cavs are now being considered to be legitimate postseason candidates. A probability report from stats site Basketball-Reference even predicted they are likely a lock for the playoffs, with the best odds to finish atop of the Eastern Conference in the postseason.

With matchups against the Milwaukee Bucks, Atlanta Hawks, and Boston Celtics all looming before Christmas, it will certainly do Cleveland good to have a full roster if they are to preserve the impressive streak.

Player availability would definitely be key for both teams when the Cavs and the Bucks clash on December 18 in Wisconsin.