Cavs lackluster against Warriors, finish with worst scoring output of the season

The Cleveland Cavaliers finish with their worst scoring output of the season

The Cleveland Cavaliers failed to spoil the return of Golden State Warriors All-Star Klay Thompson and fell in San Francisco, 96-82. The Cavs starters struggled offensively and caused them to finish with the season-worst scoring output.

Lamar Stevens, starting in place for the still injured Isaac Okoro and mostly known for his defensive motor, led all Cavaliers players in scoring after tallying 17 points off an efficient 73 percent shooting in the game.

Some of Cleveland’s best scorers in Darius Garland, Lauri Markkanen, Kevin Love, and Cedi Osman all failed to notch double-figures in what appeared to be a lackluster effort for the Cavaliers all around.

One of the few bright spots for the Cavs was newcomer Rajon Rondo, who had an inspired second-half burst to notch 15 points and five assists. With his leadership, Cleveland slowly cut a 24-point deficit to just 10 late in the final period.

Unfortunately, the Warriors proved to be the better-composed team and were able to squash any hope for an already unlikely Cavaliers comeback. Stephen Curry top-scored with 28, while Thompson added 17 in his first game back in 941 days.

The Cleveland Cavaliers need to pace themselves in lengthy road trip

While the Cavaliers’ starters struggling offensively for consecutive games appear improbable, the team needs to go back into the film room and figure out necessary adjustments immediately.

After losing six of their previous nine outings, the Cavs have fallen to 22-18 and will continue to play the next four assignments on the road against potential Western Conference postseason contenders.

What came before the up-and-down struggle was six consecutive victories, and this team has proven the ability to compete among the best teams around the league when completely locked in.

If they can keep the focus and round back to form quickly, the quest for a top-four seed in the East may still be in the cards. It won’t be easy, but this young group has shown an incredible amount of resilience and drive to make it possible.

Time is of the essence, however, as the Cavaliers have less than 24 hours to flip a turnaround as they are immediately off to face the Sacramento Kings.