Cavs look to respond in rematch vs. Heat

The Cavaliers will get another crack at the Heat on Friday, this time with a day to regroup after Wednesday’s 120-103 loss.

The message is pretty simple: Start better.

The Cavs managed just 10 points through the first seven minutes in that one and never fully recovered, despite a strong third quarter push. Against a Miami team that had been giving up points in bunches, Cleveland’s 103 felt light.

“They made ’em, we didn’t,” coach Kenny Atkinson said afterward. Fair enough. But there’s more to it than that.

The Cavs were sluggish early, struggled to match Miami’s energy, and got little from the bench. That group was outscored 43-14. That can’t happen.

Neither can what happened with Evan Mobley. Eight points. Eight shots. Against lineups that often didn’t have a true center on the floor.

Meanwhile, Miami leaned into its depth. Eight players scored in double figures. Rookie big Kel’el Ware was a +32 in just 20 minutes, knocking down threes and controlling the glass. Bam Adebayo added 17, 10, and seven assists.

That’s balance. That’s execution. Cleveland will need more of both.

There are some potential reinforcements. Max Strus is expected back after sitting Wednesday. Jarrett Allen is trending toward a return, which would be significant for both rim protection and rebounding.

Miami may not be at full strength. Jaime Jaquez Jr. is questionable after contributing 14 points and five assists in the first meeting.

Bottom line? The Cavs don’t need to reinvent anything.

They just need to be sharper from the jump.

Injury Report

Cavaliers
Jarrett Allen — Probable (knee)
Jaylon Tyson — Out (toe)
Craig Porter Jr. — Out (groin)
Dean Wade — Out (ankle)

Heat
Jaime Jaquez Jr. — Questionable (ankle)
Terry Rozier — Out (team decision)