Cavaliers Down Top-Seeded Atlanta In NBA Playoffs

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Published on May 21 2015 7:02 am
Last Updated on May 21 2015 7:02 am
Written by Millie Lange

J.R. Smith knocked down a tough 3-pointer, then another. Turning toward the fans, their heckling transformed to groans, he blew on his right index finger and motioned toward his side, like he was holstering a pistol. Yep, Smith was that hot.

While LeBron James led Cleveland with 31 points, it was Smith who ignited the Cavaliers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals. He made eight 3-pointers and scored 28 points in a 97-89 victory over the top-seeded Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday night. Intent on bringing Cleveland its first NBA title, James sealed the victory with a soaring dunk in the final minute.

For the Hawks, it was the second straight series in which they lost the opening ga.m.e at home. Cleveland will look to take command of the series in Game 2 on Friday night.

Making matters worse for Atlanta, DeMarre Carroll went down with a knee injury driving to the basket with 4:59 remaining. He was helped to the locker room, not putting any weight on his left leg, and will undergo an MRI on Thursday to determine the seriousness.


Wednesday, May 20 Scoreboard

Cleveland 97, Atlanta 89
EASTERN CONFERENCE FINALS - Game 1

 

Schedule (All Times Central)

Thursday, May 21

Houston at Golden State, 8 p.m.
WESTERN CONFERENCE FINALS - Game 2

Friday, May 22

Cleveland at Atlanta, 7:30 p.m.
EASTERN CONFERENCE FINALS - Game 2

Saturday, May 23

Golden State at Houston, 8 p.m.
WESTERN CONFERENCE FINALS - Game 3

Sunday, May 24

Atlanta at Cleveland, 7:30 p.m.
EASTERN CONFERENCE FINALS - Game 3