Final Score: Cavaliers win 124-116, get much needed victory vs. Nets

The Cleveland Cavaliers beat the Brooklyn Nets 124-116 Friday night at home. The victory comes after a tumultuous week, where the Cavs made headlines for all the wrong reasons. Normally getting a win against the Brooklyn Nets would not move the needle, but for the Cavs the win seems like a step back in the right direction.

The game started off well for Cleveland. The team played with good energy and looked engaged. Tristan Thompson in particular had a nice first quarter, making a number of plays. The defense looked sloppy at times and allowed the Nets to go on a mini run to close out the quarter but the Cavs were still up by two as the second quarter began.

The second quarter started out well for Cleveland. Despite the shooting struggles of the reserves the starting five were playing well and the Cavs lead was increasing. Unfortunately the second quarter was similar to the first and a cold stretch from the field combined with lackluster defense allowed the Nets to hang in the game. However a strong final minute punctuated by a Richard Jefferson three-pointer and dunk helped the Cavs head into halftime with an eight point lead.

Coming out of halftime was when the Cavs really pulled away. LeBron and company scored 39 points in the third and put the game away. Kyrie Irving in particular played well for Cleveland scoring 20 points in the quarter.

The fourth quarter was basically a formality as the Cavs were up by 20 plus for most of the frame. Kyle Korver and Kay Felder both made contributions offensively, which has to be seen as a positive from the Cavaliers standpoint. When it was all said and done the Cavs won easily.

Despite the inferior opponent, this was a great result for the Cavs. The team needed a win after a week of poor performances and off court strife. The Cavaliers will look to continue their winning ways on Sunday afternoon when they take on the Oklahoma City Thunder at Quicken Loans Arena.