Cavs vs. Nets: Byron Scott let down by Cleveland defense again

The Cleveland Cavaliers delivered another substandard defensive performance on Tuesday in a 114-101 loss to the Brooklyn Nets. After the game, coach Byron Scott expressed his frustration:

"There was nothing there defensively," Scott said. "We've got to get more guys who are going to be competitive and passionate about the defensive end. Right now we've got three: Boobie Gibson, Alonzo Gee and Anderson Varejao. We've got to get other guys to join into the party. It's as simple as that."

The Nets were able to shoot 55 percent from the field, compared to just 44 percent for the Cavs. Joe Johnson had been struggling with his new teammates in Brooklyn, but he broke out with a season-high 25 points. Cleveland's starters had no trouble scoring, as Anderson Varejao put up 35 points (in addition to 18 rebounds), and Kyrie Irving had 34.

This was the final game of a six-game, cross-country road trip for Cleveland. They will now get a few days to rest before taking on the Dallas Mavericks in Cleveland on Saturday.

The Cavs have allowed an average of 104.8 points per game to their opponents this season. That this the worst in the league. In each of the last two seasons, Cleveland has averaged over 100 points allowed per game.