Cavaliers Defeat Pelicans 128-100

In a dominant performance, the Cleveland Cavaliers routed the shorthanded New Orleans Pelicans 128-100, led by Ty Jerome's career-high 29 points, including seven 3-pointers in the first half. Starting in place of the injured Darius Garland, Jerome scored 27 of his points in the first half, helping the Cavaliers secure a 69-55 halftime lead. Cleveland's victory marked their best start in franchise history at 16-1, overcoming a recent loss to the Boston Celtics. The Pelicans, missing nine key players including Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson, struggled throughout the game; rookie Antonio Reeves scored 34 points but could not stem the tide. Jaylon Tyson shone in his first professional start, contributing 16 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists. Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson praised the bench for stepping up, emphasizing the importance of this game for young players given the team's injury woes.