The Cleveland Cavaliers navigated a unique challenge against the Utah Jazz, who employed a three-big lineup reminiscent of Cleveland's past. Injuries forced the Cavs to adapt, emphasizing versatility and exploiting the Jazz's lack of perimeter shooting.
The Cavs were forced to use their one-big lineup featuring Evan Mobley to pull out Monday's victory over the Jazz.The Jazz, boasting two seven-footers in Walker Kessler and Lauri Markkanen, rolled out a lineup that resembled the Cavs of old — an unorthodox setup that dared to defy the NBA ’s evolution. Once upon a time, Markkanen was a centerpiece of Cleveland’s own three-big philosophy, manning the small forward position beside Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley.
Now, as Utah’s linchpin, Markkanen embodies what the Jazz hoped would give them an edge.“There have been a lot of nights where we talk about using our size as our advantage,” Hardy admitted pregame. “Tonight’s not one of those nights.”What was the key to the Cavs' late-game execution against the Utah Jazz? Wine and Gold Talk podcastFor Cleveland, this was more than a game — it was a crossroads. A team that had once prided itself on bucking trends with its big lineup now found itself forced to embrace versatility and adaptability. With injuries to Dean Wade (knee) and Isaac Okoro (shoulder) thinning the depth chart, head coach Kenny Atkinson was tasked with reimagining his rotation against a lineup that mirrored Cleveland’s former self.They dominated the boards, outrebounding Cleveland 33-21 and keeping the game within striking distance. Despite its dismal 7-21 record, Utah’s sheer physicality presented an unusual challenge, forcing Cleveland’s hand. The Cavs clung to a four-point lead at halftime, but the margin felt precarious. As the third quarter unfolded, Atkinson faced a critical decision. The tandem of Allen and Mobley — Cleveland’s identity for years — wasn’t enough to stem the tide. By the fourth quarter, the rebounding deficit loomed large, and the Jazz had clawed back to within one possession. “They were switching everything defensively, and we just figured we needed to spread them out a little more,” Atkinson explained. “We love Jarrett. He’s grea
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