Rotowire

With the insertion of JoshJay into the lineup, Cavs Legion GC appeared to turn a corner in their 2-1 series win over Orlando, and they entered Friday’s game looking to keep things going against Knicks Gaming, who were still licking their wounds after losses to Blazer5 and Hornets Venom on back-to-back days. Things looked promising for Cavs Legion early on, but Knicks Gaming took Games 2 and 3 and grabbed a much-needed win.

The Cavs jumped right out of the gate in Game 1 and got 14 points from Strainer to take a 25-11 lead at the end of the first stanza. The Legion kept on rolling from there, taking a 25-point lead at halftime. The Knicks tried in vain to claw back but ultimately lost, 80-61. The Knicks committed an eye-popping 16 turnovers in the contest. Strainer stuffed his stat line with 41 points and eight assists, and All Hail Trey contributed 17 points for the Cavs. New York got 28 points and five assists from Duck, who was unsuccessful in carrying the team on his back.

The Knicks made some adjustments and refused to fold, taking control of Game 2 early. They surged to a 40-22 lead at the half. Cavs Legion couldn’t erase that lead and fell to the Knicks, 67-55. OriginalMalik led the Knicks with 27 points, eight assists and a perfect 5-of-5 from beyond the arc. CantGuardRob also pitched in with a 16-point,13-rebound double-double. Although Strainer posted another big number (23 points), oLarry (23 points, 15 rebounds, six blocks) was the only other player to score in double digits for Cleveland.

Game 3 started tight, but the Knicks began to press and blitzed the Cavs with 21-11 second quarter thanks to great all-around defensive play. Cleveland surged back with a 9-2 run to begin the third quarter, but the Knicks were able to extend plays with key offensive boards throughout the second half, which limited the Legion’s ability to play catch-up. The Knicks ultimately prevailed to win the series with a 64-55 win. Dick led the way for the Knicks with 24 points and six assists, and CantGuardRob contributed as well with a 12-point,11-rebound double-double. Strainer (34 points) and oLarry (12 points, 14 rebounds) paced the Cavs in a losing effort.

Cavs Legion GC (2-4) will face Pistons Gaming next Wednesday, while Knicks Gaming (3-4) will battle with Gen.G Tigers next Friday.