Cleveland wins against Charlotte after a perfect start

The Cleveland Cavaliers made this victory more stressful than it should have been. After leading 56-32 at halftime against the Charlotte Hornets, they saw their opponent cut the deficit to four points in the final quarter before ultimately winning 94-87.

A perfect first half for Cleveland

The Cavaliers started the game with the appropriate defensive intensity, limiting Charlotte to just 12 points in the second quarter. Donovan Mitchell set the tone with 24 points overall, despite 8 turnovers that fueled the Hornets’ comeback. Cleveland’s defense forced Charlotte into uncharacteristic turnovers and rushed shots, allowing the visitors to build a 21-point lead in the first quarter.

PLAYER PROFILE

Donovan MITCHELL

Position(s): Guard

Height: 190 cm

Age: 29 years (07/09/1996)

Nationality:

Stats 2025-2026 / NBA

PTS

28.9

#7

REB

4.8

#133

AST

5.7

#32

Evan Mobley shined in the first half with 13 points and 11 rebounds, connecting on spectacular dunks. However, as often this season, this aggression didn’t carry over to the last two quarters, with Mobley scoring just one point in the second half to finish with 14 points and 14 rebounds.

READ ALSO

Thunder crushes Cavaliers 136-104 without forcing their talent

The Thunder crushes the Cavaliers 136-104 without forcing their talent

January 20, 2026

Nicolas Flamecourt

Charlotte misses the opportunity despite a late surge

The Hornets paid dearly for their poor start, shooting only 26% in the first half. Brandon Miller led Charlotte’s offensive charge with 24 points, while rookie Kon Knueppel added 21 points and 11 rebounds. But it was LaMelo Ball who experienced a nightmare, finishing 1/15 from the field including 0/10 from 3-point range for only 4 points.

Charles Lee’s team converted just 8 of their 46 3-point attempts and was outrebounded 60-47. Despite an impressive second-half comeback, winning that portion of the game 55-38, the Hornets couldn’t completely erase their initial deficit.

This fifth road victory in their last six away games allows Cleveland to continue their strong season, even though the absence of Darius Garland is felt in offensive management. The Cavaliers will host Sacramento on Friday before traveling to Orlando.