Chapter 117: Career Night.
Not only the players on the court, but even Hollins didn't quite understand what was happening. With the game just starting, calling a timeout wouldn't make much sense, so he substituted Johnson in.
Johnson's low-post game is practically non-existent, so now the Grizzlies had to rely solely on Conley's playmaking.
As the technical foul was being executed, Han Sen took Randolph's place for the free throw. At this point, technical fouls resulted in two free throws and possession, so the Cavaliers got four free throws in total.
After all the free throws were taken, the score was 3-5, with the Cavaliers leading, and they still had possession.
Williams drove but missed due to Conley's defense. However, Varejao and Jamison grabbed a few offensive boards, and Jamison eventually put the ball in.
Randolph's unexpected exit caught the Grizzlies off guard, and it fired up the Cavaliers as well.
Randolph's importance was evident—going from a loss to a potential win changes the entire mindset of the players, reflected in how they play.
Conley ran a pick-and-roll with Gasol, but Gasol's layup was blocked by Varejao's effort.
The Cavaliers launched a fast break, and Williams finished with a layup.
3-7. The Cavaliers controlled the momentum early on.
"Defense! Defense!"