How Caris LeVert Fared In His Cavs Return
For the first time this month, the Cleveland Cavaliers had their sixth man Caris LeVert suit up for a game. Having missed four consecutive games, it was the wine-and-gold swingman's first action since Nov. 30 against the Portland Trail Blazers.
Despite a loss to the Boston Celtics, LeVert put together a solid effort in 23 minutes of floor time. He scored 11 points, dished out three assists, pulled down a couple of rebounds and blocked a shot. In addition, LeVert defended Jayson Tatum on switches and guarded Jaylen Brown head-on.
"I felt good," LeVert said after the 120-113 defeat. "I felt like I tried to make winning plays on both ends, body felt good. So I was just happy to be back out there with my teammates.
Notably, he got going at the beginning of the fourth quarter with a string of positive possessions. LeVert hit a catch-shoot three from Isaac Okoro, got into the paint with a lay-in and found his mid-range game, scoring seven points in about 90 seconds as the Cavs started the final period strong.
"I just try to play to the momentum of the game," LeVert explained. "They kinda left me. The defense was a little soft on me those plays, so I just tried to take advantage of it."
Dec 12, 2023; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics guard Derrick White (9) shoots for three points against Cleveland Cavaliers guard Caris LeVert (3) in the second half at TD Garden.
David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
"I thought he was really good," Cavs head coach J.B. Bickerstaff added. "I think he showed sparks of what he's gonna bring to us. The ability to create for himself, create for others, attack the basket, get to the paint. He tried to draw some contact. I think he's a guy who can draw fouls and help us get to the free-throw line to cover that discrepancy."
The Cavs are thrilled to have their bench-unit leader back in the fold, as they should be.
