The Cleveland Cavaliers played some consistent basketball in all four quarters of their last game against Atlanta Hawks, which helped them take 1-0 lead in the Eastern Conference Playoff semifinals. The Cavaliers will be keen to play a similar game as they are set to host Atlanta Hawks for Game 2 at the Quicken Loans Arena on Wednesday.
Though Cavaliers emerged triumphant in the first game, Hawks showed some great character during the game, and even reduced the point-deficit, but LeBron James and co. proved to be too strong.
James, who is their star player, might have scored 25 points, but only got one chance from the free throw line. Cavaliers' coach, Tyronn Lue believes that he should have got more free throws after his powerful game.
''When he attacks the basket, he's so strong and athletic and he goes with so much force that a lot of times, guys are bouncing off of him, but still, those are fouls.We just got to continue to play through it and got to continue to keep attacking and, hopefully, we'll get those callsm" Associated Press quoted Lue as saying.
Though James in their best player, others in the team like Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love also step up their game when required, which makes them a formidable team. If the trio gets their game going in Game 2 as well, the Cavaliers could enjoy a healthy 2-0 lead.
The Hawks will need to find a way to stop these players from shining in Game 2, and their players should also step up the game, to draw the series level.
The Hawks have some stars in their line-up, which includes Paul Millsap, Jeff Teague and Kyle Krover. The visitors will hope Krover comes up with his A class game from beyond the arc as he is one of the best three point shooters in the NBA. Millsap and Teague needs to contribute in the offensive board as well.
It is imperative for the Hawks to get off to a great start in Game 2, as another poor start like the last game -- trail by 11 points in the first quarter -- could prove to be disastrous.
Where to watch live
Cleveland Cavaliers vs Atlanta Hawks NBA playoff game 2 is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET (5:30 a.m. IST, 1 a.m. BST) start. Indian viewers can watch it live on Sony Six/HD, with live streaming on Sonyliv.
Viewers in the US can watch the Cleveland Cavaliers vs Atlanta Hawks playoff game 2 live on TNT, with live streaming on TNT Overtime.
BT Sport will provide live coverage of the NBA playoffs game in the UK, while the game can also be live streamed on Watch BT Sport.
NBA fans can also watch the Cleveland Cavaliers vs Atlanta Hawks game 2 live on NBA.com.
