Despite Jamsion’s Efforts, LeBron-Less Cavs Fall In Milwaukee, 92-85
Written by Russell Williams, Cavs 24/7 Staff
CLEVELAND, Ohio – Even the King needs to take a day off, and that’s just what the Cavaliers’ LeBron James did tonight against the Milwaukee Bucks after coming off a game against the Detroit Pistons, in which LeBron hurt his ankle not once – but twice in the ballgame.
However, the Cavaliers really could of used James in this game as they lost to the Milwaukee Bucks 92-85, at the Bradly Center in Milwaukee – ending their six game winning streak. Despite efforts from Antawn Jamison who poured in 30 points and 11 rebounds in effort to stir the Cavaliers into a victory without their leader available.
But outside of Jamison, not too many Cavaliers were able to get anything going offensively outside of Delonte West, who put up 27 points off the bench. Jamison and West combined for 57 of the Cavs’ 85 total points. The best offensive team in the first quarter was shut down to just 14 points in 29 percent shooting from the field, along with giving up 25 points while allowing the Bucks to shot a sizzling 50 percent.
The Cavs made some quick adjustments to swing the game back into their favor, but it didn’t last long without much support from guys not named Antawn Jamison and Delonte West, and that included Mo Williams who had a night he would like to forget as soon as possible. As he returned to the place where he had much success in his career in Milwaukee, he went a freezing cold 3-of-17 from the field including 1-of-7 from downtown.
Williams’ replacement nowadays in Milwaukee, rookie guard Brandon Jennings had his way with the Cavaliers’ missing defense, as he worked his way through a 25 points night on 6-of-14 shooting from the field, including 5-of-7 from 3pt range.
“We couldn’t get some stops for a stretch, and then I thought we had some pretty good looks, and the looks didn’t go down,” Head coach Mike Brown said. “That gave Milwaukee confidence and allowed them to run out a couple of times. The next thing you know, we’re down double digits again. You’ve got to give credit to Milwaukee. They played a heck of a ball game, but I thought our guys did a nice job trying to fight, especially defensively.”
The Cavs came back in the fourth quarter and trailed by 5 points with 3 minutes left, but that’s as close as they came. The short handed Cavaliers just couldn’t overcome their losses.
Said Mike Brown of his short handed bunch. “I give my guys credit for being shorthanded and going out there and fighting and at least giving us an opportunity down the stretch.”
The Bucks were led by Jennings and Andrew Bogut who had 15 points and 9 rebounds.
The Cavaliers will be off Sunday until they head home to play against the San Antonio Spurs Monday night at The Q. LeBron James is listed as questionable with an ankle injury, but Mike Brown said he may keep him out once again to rest his superstar while the Cavs have a favorable schedule this week, playing only Monday(vs. Spurs) and Friday(@ 76ers).
No Boobie Again: The Cavs probably could have used Daniel Gibson’s offensive game Saturday night when they took on the Milwaukee Bucks. However, Gibson is still back at home taking care of his new born child. Gibson may return tomorrow night when the Cavs take on the Spurs.
Coaches Decision: Mike Brown repeatedly told reporters that it was his decision to keep out LeBron James against the Bucks Saturday night, and his decision only.
“It’s just a coach’s decision,” Brown said. “He’s played a lot of minutes for us and I thought it would be a good opportunity for him to get some rest. This has nothing to do with the injury. This is my decision based on the minutes that he’s played.
“He’s carried a big load and played a high volume of minutes for us,” Brown added. “Even though he may not like it, even he needs to sit down and recuperate.”
Jawad Williams started in place for James.
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