Cavs looking to build on recent play against defenseless Jazz

The Cavaliers looked like a team that learned something.

Last time out, they ran past the Timberwolves by a 146-134 count and moved to 22-18, answering many of the questions raised in the previous loss to Minnesota. The ball moved. The shots fell. The defense, while not perfect, showed better awareness and effort.

That matters heading into Monday night’s home matchup with the Jazz, a team Cleveland has not yet seen this season. The Jazz have been competitive on plenty of nights. The problem is that they can’t stop anyone.

Utah owns the worst defensive rating in the NBA, allowing nearly 130 points per game. It is also coming off a 47-point loss to Charlotte, surrendering 150 along the way. This is one of those games where Cleveland should dictate terms early. Make shots. Stay locked in defensively. Do not invite unnecessary drama.

The Cavs again went without Lonzo Ball, and at this point, it no longer feels temporary. Craig Porter Jr. continues to justify the minutes with steady, productive play off the bench. Ball is still viewed in league circles as a potential trade asset, while Porter has given Cleveland reason to stay the course.

Donovan Mitchell and company are trending the right way. The two losses this month came against the best team in the East and one of the West’s top contenders. That is not panic territory.

The biggest edge should come inside. With Walker Kessler out, Jarrett Allen has a chance to own the glass. If Cleveland plays to its strengths, this shouldn’t be a tough night.