Written by Rich Swerbinsky

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Cavs Finally Show Up In Second Half To Knock Off Lowly Blazers

The Cavaliers ended their three game losing streak last night, defeating the Portland Trail Blazers by a 99-84 count last night at The Q.

The Cavs were led by Drew Gooden, who had 23 points, 14 rebounds, and played inspiring defense on the Blazers Zach Randolph after Randolph got off to a quick start. This was the first 20 point game for Gooden in nearly three months. Gooden was a double-double machine for the team earlier in the season, but has been incredibly inconsistent since the calendar flipped over to 2006.

The Cavs held a 53-43 lead at halftime, which should mean nothing to you if you've watched this team over the past couple weeks.  The Cavs were severely beaten in the second half of each of their last three losses.  It's possible it was simply their lowly opponent, but the Cavs came out of the break on fire on this night, going on a 16-4 run to start the second half, and put the game away.

The Cavs controlled the action down low against the young, smallish Blazers.  They outrebounded Portland 47-36.  They outscored them 58-34 in the paint.  And they added fifteen second chance points to the Blazers two. 

LeBron James delivered a healthy contribution as always.  James had 27 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists, and 6 steals on the night.  Flip Murray added 16 points on 7-10 shooting.  Anderson Varejao added 7 points and 6 rebounds in 13 minutes off the pine.

Nest up for the Cavaliers are Kobe Bryant and the Lakers, who they host at The Q on Sunday.