Cavs top pick Irving scores 21 in debut

source: NOAH TRISTER | AP Sports Writer

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. (AP)—Kyrie Irving scored 21 points in his first exhibition game—including five free throws in the final minute—in the Cleveland Cavaliers’ 91-87 victory over the Detroit Pistons on Friday night.

Irving, the top pick in this year’s draft, wasn’t in the starting lineup, but he looked comfortable in what was a sloppy game. Both teams have a lot of work to do before their season openers Dec. 26.

At halftime, Cleveland was shooting 33 percent and had 14 turnovers. Detroit was at 30 percent and 10 turnovers. The teams were sharper in the final two quarters, but this was by no means a masterpiece.

Brandon Knight, the second point guard picked in the draft behind Irving, had nine points for the Pistons.