Cavs looked good in playoff preview

Key Points:

• The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Atlanta Hawks 122-116, with the Cavs likely to face the Hawks in the first round of the playoffs; Atlanta has improved significantly since trading Trae Young, especially on defense.
• The Hawks led at halftime by controlling the tempo and exploiting the Cavs' slow defensive transitions, but Cleveland dominated the second half with strong inside play from Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley, holding Atlanta to 49 points and forcing turnovers.
• The Cavs' success depended on controlling the pace, focusing on halfcourt offense, and attacking the rim, resulting in a significant advantage in free throws (28-10), with key contributions from big men Mobley and Jarrett Allen.
• James Harden struggled offensively, shooting 6-for-23 with only four assists, but coach J.B. Bickerstaff remains confident in Harden's ability to lead the offense, emphasizing the need for his usual playmaking in the playoffs.
• Donovan Mitchell led the team with 31 points, demonstrating his playoff-caliber performance by driving aggressively and creating scoring opportunities, while Mobley emerged as a dominant force inside, averaging 19 points and nearly 10 rebounds since the All-Star break.