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Hawks make statement, blow out Cavaliers in Cleveland

David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

The Atlanta Hawks sent a message to the Eastern Conference and the NBA on Wednesday night: they're legit. 

The Hawks destroyed the Cavaliers in Cleveland, roaring back from an eight-point first-quarter deficit to blow out the Cavs 127-98. It's the Cavs' most lopsided loss of the season. 

Here's what you need to know:

  • The Hawks shot a ridiculous 64.5 percent from the field (69 percent in the first half), and an obscene 57.1 percent (16-of-28) from 3-point range. Their 127 points were a season high.
  • The Cavaliers allowed 65 points in the first half, a season high. They couldn't come up with a stop all night.
  • Seven Hawks ended up scoring in double figures, including Shelvin Mack, who dropped a career-high 24 points off the bench on 7-of-8 shooting. He hit all six of his 3-pointers. 
  • The Cavs were paced by LeBron James, who dropped 21 points on 8-of-16 shooting. Dion Waiters added 21 as well on 50 percent shooting from the floor. 
  • The 29-point home-court loss was the third-worst of James' career, according to ESPN Stats & Info
  • Kevin Love flirted with a triple-double, finishing with 13 points on 4-of-10 shooting, 10 rebounds and six assists. 
  • This was revenge for the Hawks, and it was sweet:
  • The Cavaliers fall to 14-10, while Atlanta's now 18-7 and 6-5 on the road. Beware the Hawks. 

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