What To Expect In Third Philadelphia 76ers-Cleveland Cavaliers Matchup
Last night, the Cleveland Cavaliers lost their first game following the NBA All-Star Break, falling to the Orlando Magic by a score of 116-109.
Tonight, the Wine and Gold embark on a two-game road trip when they take on the Philadelphia 76ers.
Here are four things to expect in the third matchup between the two teams this regular season.
1. No Donovan Mitchell (Again)
According to the NBA’s 6:30 p.m. ET Injury Report, Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell is out for tonight’s game due to an illness. He also missed last night’s game due to an illness.
This will be Mitchell’s 11th game missed this season, with Cleveland holding a 6-4 record in the previous 10 such contests.
2. Okoro Excelling Offensively
Cavaliers swingman Isaac Okoro has fared well offensively in Cleveland’s last four contests.
The 23-year-old has averaged 13.3 points per game in this span, scoring in double-figures three times. Okoro scored 17 points last night against the Magic, his most in a game since January 29.
Feb 22, 2024; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward Isaac Okoro (35) dunks in the fourth quarter against the Orlando Magic at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
© David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
3. Cavaliers Playing Motivated
The last time these two teams met on February 12, the 76ers snapped Cleveland’s season-long nine-game winning streak with a 123-121 road victory.
With this outcome, along with the Cavaliers' most recent loss last night, the Wine and Gold have now lost two of three games for the first time since December 29 through January 3.
4. Hield In A Strong Rhythm
Philadelphia swingman Buddy Hield had a solid game in the last meeting between these two teams.
He tied a team-high with 24 points, shooting an efficient 9-for-13 (69.2%) from the field and 5-for-8 (62.5%) from three-point range. Hield also recorded four rebounds, eight assists, and a steal.
