The Cleveland Cavaliers came out flat in Game 2, and it cost them dearly. Falling to the Detroit Pistons 107-97, the Cavs now find themselves in a 2-0 hole in the second round—and the culprit wasn't turnovers or defense. It was their shooting that let them down.
Let's break down the numbers that tell the story of this loss.
Three-Point Disparity
The Pistons caught fire from deep, hitting 14 of 28 three-pointers (50%). That mark is a rarity for Detroit—only the seventh time in 91 games this season they've shot 50% or better from beyond the arc. Duncan Robinson was the main tormentor, going 5-for-9 (55.6%).
On the flip side, the Cavs managed just 7-of-32 from three (21.9%)—their lowest percentage of the postseason and the third-worst mark in any game this season. In a league where shooting often decides outcomes, both teams had outlier performances, just in opposite directions.
Who Could Score?
Only five of the eight Cavaliers who attempted a three-pointer actually made one, and just two players hit more than a single triple: Dean Wade (2-for-4) and Donovan Mitchell (2-for-9). That's not nearly enough firepower to keep pace with a hot-shooting Pistons squad.
James Harden's Tough Night
For the second straight game, James Harden had more turnovers (four) than made field goals (three). It's the fourth time this postseason that's happened. But turnovers weren't the main issue in Game 2—it was his shooting. Harden went 3-for-13 from the field in an abysmal performance, posting a team-worst plus/minus of -15. The Pistons relentlessly attacked him on defense, seeking out mismatches, while he struggled to find his rhythm on offense, both as a scorer and a playmaker.
No Paint Presence
Perhaps the most alarming stat: The Cavs attempted just six shots in the restricted area all game—ranking in the 2nd percentile among all playoff performances. Getting to the rim is the most efficient way to score, yet Cleveland simply couldn't get there. Considering how poorly they shot from three and how little they attacked the basket, it's a miracle they were even in this game.
Donovan Mitchell's Unusual Night
Donovan Mitchell attempted 24 field goals but took none of his shots in the restricted area. For a player known for his explosive drives to the hoop, that's a telling stat. The Pistons' defense clearly made it a priority to keep him out of the paint, forcing him into tough, contested jumpers.
For Cavs fans, the message is clear: This series is far from over, but the shooting woes need to be addressed quickly. In a make-or-miss league, Cleveland is missing far too many good looks when it matters most.