DALLAS — Caris LeVert’s late heroics, combined with Jarrett Allen’s dominant inside presence, lifted the Cleveland Cavaliers to a stunning 113-110 comeback victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday night. The Cavaliers overcame a 20-point first-half deficit, showcasing their resilience even in the absence of star guard Donovan Mitchell.
LeVert, who ended the night with 29 points, nailed a crucial 3-pointer in the final quarter to put the Cavaliers ahead. Allen’s impressive performance included 24 points and 23 rebounds, just one shy of his career-best. Isaac Okoro contributed significantly with 22 points, as the Cavs improved to 3-1 during Mitchell’s four-game absence due to illness.
The Mavericks, missing All-Star Kyrie Irving due to a right heel injury, witnessed a nine-point fourth-quarter lead evaporate. Luka Doncic, despite scoring 39 points, couldn’t prevent Dallas from a five-minute scoring drought in the final quarter. Cleveland’s 15-0 run, which began as soon as Doncic returned to the court, was pivotal in securing their lead.
For Dallas, Seth Curry added a season-high 19 points, but he and Doncic combined for a mere 2 of 11 shooting in the fourth. The Mavericks’ offense struggled in the clutch moments, missing key shots that could have altered the game’s outcome.
The Cavaliers’ defense was instrumental in the comeback, particularly in containing Dallas in the crucial moments of the game. Despite trailing by six with only 21 seconds remaining, the Mavericks had a chance to tie the game in the final possession. However, a well-executed trap on Doncic near midcourt and a blocked desperation three by Strus sealed the win for Cleveland.
Niang chipped in with 16 points for the Cavs, while Craig Porter Jr. recorded nine points and 12 rebounds. Allen’s performance was especially noteworthy as he outplayed Mavericks’ rookie Dereck Lively II, also adding six assists to his impressive stat line.
The Cavaliers’ comeback win underlines their ability to compete and win games even without key players like Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland. They now look forward to hosting Milwaukee, while the Mavericks face Minnesota in their next game.
