The Cavs Core Four: Evaluating their Game 2 performances vs Knicks

Evan Mobley’s Game 2

Mobley had a rough Game 1, as he was getting pushed around late in the game by Julius Randle and missed a key rebound that could have given the Cavaliers a chance to win late. It was a rough postseason debut for the second-year man. Not only did he miss that rebound, but he also shot 3-of-11 on shots inside the paint. That is unacceptable for a big man. However, Mobley did not let that trend continue in Game 2.

He was soaring for rebounds. He was everywhere on defense, making life tough for Randle once again, holding him to 22 points on 8-of-20 shooting and 6 turnovers. Including the regular season, Mobley has now held Randle to 15-of-45 shooting as the primary defender. It was a masterful job as always on defense for the youngster. However, he was much better on offense as well, finishing with 13 points on 6-of-11 shooting.

Mobley did a much better job of going up strong when going to the rim instead of finishing with touch. He matched the physicality of Randle on the glass as well, finishing with 13 big rebounds. With Mobley playing at a high level on both ends of the floor, the Cavs are really tough to beat. He needs to continue this level of play as the Wine and Gold head to New York.