Tristan Thompson new career highs of 29 points and 17 rebounds helped the Cavs to beat Boston Celtics 97-91 at TD Garden. The Cavaliers dominated Boston inside the paint to end its 10-game losing streak.
It was the second time in two days Thompson took on a leadership role for the Cavaliers. After practice Thursday, he lashed out at critics who blame the Cavaliers' woes on coach Byron Scott and rumors that he won't be back for a fourth season. Thompson called the speculation ''bogus,'' saying it was the players' responsibility to work their way out of the slide.
On Friday, he backed up his comments by grabbing every loose ball within reach and leading the Cavaliers to a 58-42 rebounding edge in their first win since March 12. His seven offensive rebounds were just three short of Boston's team total.
Alonzo Gee also had a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds for the Cavaliers, who avenged their most painful loss of the skid.
The Cavaliers held on to this lead - firmly - two days after getting routed by Brooklyn 113-95 in Cleveland.
The Cavaliers avoided their 11th straight loss, which would have been the second-longest streak under Scott.
The Celtics played without team captain Paul Pierce, who was out with a sore ankle.
Green scored 23 points for Boston and Shavlik Randolph had 16 points before fouling out with 6:57 left in the fourth. Brandon Bass scored 12 and Avery Bradley had 10 points for Boston.
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