Story perspectives

Cavaliers Rally in Fourth Quarter to Avoid Loss

3/22/2026

Summary

Cavaliers' Fourth Quarter Rescue

James Harden and Mitchell failed to score in the first half.
The Cleveland Cavaliers scored only 19 points in the second quarter.
Dennis Schroder and Nae’Qwan Tomlin underperformed.
The New Orleans Pelicans made nine three-pointers by halftime, two shy of their average for a full game.
A strong fourth quarter saved the Cleveland Cavaliers from a potential season-worst loss.

Summary

Cavaliers' Comeback Victory

The Cavaliers rallied to beat the Pelicans 111-106 after a 15-point deficit.
Donovan Mitchell scored 27 points, including 12 in the fourth.
James Harden scored 20 points, including 13 in final period, and Mitchell contributed to 25 of the Cavaliers' 35 fourth-quarter points.
The Cavaliers' defense limited the Pelicans to three three-pointers in the second half.
Despite the win, concerns linger over Mitchell's shooting slump and Dennis Schroder's one point.

History

Historical Context

The Cleveland Cavaliers' historic 2016 NBA Finals victory marked a significant turning point in the franchise's history. After trailing 3-1 against the Golden State Warriors, they became the first team to overcome such a deficit in Finals history, clinching their first championship on June 19, 2016. This win ended a 52-year championship drought for Cleveland, highlighting the resilience of players like LeBron James, who was named Finals MVP.

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Cavaliers' Fourth Quarter Rescue

James Harden and Mitchell failed to score in the first half.
The Cleveland Cavaliers scored only 19 points in the second quarter.
Dennis Schroder and Nae’Qwan Tomlin underperformed.
The New Orleans Pelicans made nine three-pointers by halftime, two shy of their average for a full game.
A strong fourth quarter saved the Cleveland Cavaliers from a potential season-worst loss.

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