For a second consecutive outing, LeBron James methodically dissected a cluster of defenders who weren’t up for the solo challenge of stopping a four-time MVP.
For a second consecutive outing, the Cavaliers relied on the long-range largesse of an unheralded, but streaky shooting guard.
And once again, Cleveland brought sustained pockets of silence to a Philips Arena crowd that may be more shocked than disgusted by another disappointing performance from Atlanta.
Put it all together, and you have the tent-pole rationale behind the Cavaliers’ 94-82 win over the Hawks in Game 2, a road thumping which now gives Cleveland a commanding 2-0 lead in the Eastern Conference finals.
Just like Wednesday’s series opener, the Hawks and Cavaliers exchanged baskets for the majority of the first half; and just like that night, the Cavaliers were equal parts menacing and maniacal when pulling away from a seemingly overmatched Hawks club.