RJ Nembhard’s 19-point performance wasn’t enough to get the win.
The Cleveland Cavaliers jumped out to an early 26-21 advantage over the Denver Nuggets in the first. The Nuggets won the final three frames as they were able to pull away with a 84-76 victory. Cleveland now drops to 1-1 in Summer League play.
The Cavs inability to control the paint and the glass were the big reasons they weren’t able to get the victory. Denver outscored Cleveland 50-32 in the paint while grabbing 17 offensive rebounds.
First round pick Ochai Agbaji didn’t have his shot falling for him like he did on Friday. He finished Sunday’s game with eights points on 3-11 shooting, which included going two of six from beyond the arc, with six boards, three assists, and a steal. Despite a less than stellar stat-line, Agbaji continues to pass the smell test. His ability and comfort moving off-ball and finding outside looks is something this team could desperately use from the wing.
Guard RJ Nembhard Jr., signed on a two-way deal, led the Cavs in scoring again as he poured in 19 points on 7-13 shooting which included nine fourth quarters points. Despite the strong scoring outing, Nembhard only contributed one helper as the Cavs as a team finished with just nine assists.
Isaiah Mobley didn’t have his best night as the Nuggets had their way in the paint. The second round pick ended the evening with eight points on four of 11 shooting with five boards, three assists, a block and five fouls.
The Cavs have a uniquely entertaining Summer League team. No one outside of Ogbaji is expected to play big minutes with the Cavs this season and the roster is nearly set with both two-way contracts already accounted for. That said, there are intriguing players here who could factor into the team’s long-term plans.
Late second round pick Luke Travers falls into that category. He filled the stat sheet once again with three points, seven boards, two assists and two steals. His feel for the game remains impressive but he will need to develop more physically if he is going to one day compete for a roster spot.
Amar Sylla looked impressive in his first Summer League game against the San Antonio Spurs where he poured in 19 points on seven of seven shooting. His scoring ability and touch around the rim were on full display again tonight as he added in 11 points on five of six shooting. However, his limitations in being a slight 6’ 9” center were also on display as the Nuggets had a field day in the paint.
Cameron Young, who finished last season with the Charge, added in 16 points while going three of nine from the field but 10 of 10 from the line.
The summer Cavs will be back in action on Wednesday evening when they take on the Charlotte Hornets. Tip-off from Vegas will be at 5 ET.