sport, local-sport, NBA

Maryborough's Matthew Dellavedova dished out a career-high 14 assists as the Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the play-off-bound Denver Nuggets 104-102 in NBA action on Sunday (AEDT). Relishing the opportunity for extra playing time, Dellavedova had seven points, 14 assists and six rebounds to be one of the Cavs' best in the upset victory. Dellavedova's previous career-high in assists was 13 while playing for Cleveland against the Milwaukee Bucks in November, 2015. Since returning to the Cavs' rotation Dellavedova has averaged five points, three rebounds and seven assists per game in the past five matches. Cavs' interim coach J.B. Bickerstaff lauded Dellavedova for his impact on the game and the way he's carried himself in a difficult season. "He (Dellavedova) can orchestrate the game by himself,'' Bickerstaff said. "There's things that he sees out of plays that we call, the way the defence guards it and he can recognise where a weakness might be the next time we run it. He can get us back to it on his own. "He is what coaches dream about from that standpoint. It's all about the team. It's plays to make everyone else feel like they're involved. "The courage to take the shot down the stretch and knock down the three speaks to his character. "The minutes for him have been up and down and he's never wavered in his approach. He's a pro. He's great for our team and he's great for our young guys." The Cavs back-up against Patty Mills and the San Antonio Spurs on Monday morning (AEDT). Have you signed up to the Bendigo Advertiser's daily newsletter and breaking news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in central Victoria.

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