Cavs finally break through as core delivers in defining Game 7

It took four years, a major trade and one final test on the road.

But the breakthrough finally came Sunday night in Detroit, where the Cavaliers rolled to a 125-94 Game 7 win over the Pistons.

After back-to-back second-round exits, the core of Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen pushed through, advancing to the Eastern Conference finals together for the first time.

That’s the takeaway.

The Cavs went all-in at the deadline, bringing in James Harden to address the issues that had stalled previous runs. This time, the Cavs looked like a team ready for the moment. Healthier. More composed. More complete.

They played like it from the start.

The Cavs controlled the game early, built a 17-point halftime lead and never really let Detroit back in. When the Pistons made a push in the third, Mitchell and Allen answered immediately, stretching the margin back out and removing any doubt.

Mitchell finished with 26 points, eight assists and seven rebounds, advancing past the second round for the first time in his career.

Allen added 23 and continues to build a reputation as a Game 7 performer. Sam Merrill delivered a major lift off the bench with 23 points and five threes.

Too much firepower. Too many answers.

Detroit, meanwhile, ran out of them.

Cade Cunningham and the Pistons had exceeded expectations all season, winning 60 games and earning the top seed. They showed resilience throughout the playoffs, including forcing this Game 7.

But the finish will sting.

“Obviously not the way we would’ve liked to end it,” coach J.B. Bickerstaff. “The Cavs just outplayed us tonight. I gotta give them credit.

For Cleveland, it’s validation. For Detroit, it’s a reminder. And for the Cavs, it’s finally a step forward.

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