Cavs debut newly-signed Williams in win over Bucks

Cavaliers: Richard Jefferson started for James and scored nine points.

“Automatic leadership”, James said of what Williams adds to the team. It took advantage of James’ absence to win its fourth straight overall.

“I’m not as anxious about Isaiah; I’m anxious about how our team’s playing”, said Boston coach Brad Stevens.

Something that people should not forget is just how good Bogut was for the Warriors in the Finals a year ago. Such moves include trading for guard/forward Kyle Korver and signing forward Derrick Williams. The former three-time All-Star will be filling the much-needed void of a backup point guard on the Cavaliers roster as the team prepares for another deep postseason run.

“We’ve been in contact”, Williams said with a smile. “That’s all I’ll say”. Irving turned in 34 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists, 1 block and 2 threes on Saturday sans LeBron.

“Griff did promise me a starting job, but other than that.” he joked of general manager David Griffin. “And just being here the whole time I’ve been here, and just seeing where there are some of the holes – or not holes, but where we can be better – and knowing who he is and his skill set, I think it’s an incredible fit”.

Deron Williams is the most internationally decorated Fighting Illini basketball player in school history. Jackson is a good young point guard for the Celtics, but Boston is too deep at the position for Jackson to stick around over Bogut. He’s a smart player.

“He’ll be fine”, Korver said. A little sore, but you know, this is a good job.

Basically, what LeBron wants, LeBron gets.

“This team really understands sacrificing yourself and preparing along the way”. “Everyone understands their role and the need for them”.

“I’m still very grateful”, he said.

Williams was interviewed by TNT late in the game between his Cavs and the Milwaukee Bucks Monday. In that stretch, he averaged 26.9 points and 6.0 assists. That night, Korver wasn’t around to bomb 3-pointers either.That remains the Cavs’ advantage against the Bulls in a potential seven-game series. He also suffered hamstring, knee and calf injuries this season.

But that’s still a ways off and the Cavs are about to prepare for the playoffs with a daunting schedule that begins Wednesday with a visit to Boston, which trails Cleveland by four games for the No. 1 spot in the Eastern Conference.