Garland’s 39 powers Cavs past Bucks, pushing record start to 8-0

Darius Garland delivered a stellar 39-point performance to help the Cleveland Cavaliers withstand a late Milwaukee Bucks rally, clinching a 116-114 victory on Monday and extending their perfect start to 8-0.

Garland’s pivotal step-back three-pointer with 45 seconds left put Cleveland ahead 113-111. Moments later, he assisted Jarrett Allen for a crucial layup, securing a win that ties Cleveland’s best season start, last seen in 1976. “It’s hard to get one (win) so eight is crazy,” Garland said postgame.

Despite missing two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo due to an adductor strain, the Bucks pushed the Cavs. Milwaukee’s Damian Lillard led a third-quarter comeback, scoring 14 of his 36 points, and helped the Bucks take a brief lead into the fourth. Yet Cleveland clawed back, with Allen contributing 14 points, 15 rebounds, and a game-sealing block on Lillard.

Elsewhere, the Oklahoma City Thunder remained unbeaten in the Western Conference, topping the Orlando Magic 102-86. Jalen Williams scored 23 points, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander added 21.

In Detroit, Cade Cunningham’s triple-double led the Pistons to a 115-103 win over the Lakers, while Anthony Davis scored 37 for Los Angeles, playing through an ankle injury in the final minutes.

(Source: AFP)