What To Expect In Final Dallas Mavericks-Cleveland Cavaliers Matchup

Cleveland looks to sweep its regular-season series against Dallas with a victory tonight.

Two nights ago, the Cleveland Cavaliers earned their first win following the NBA All-Star Break with a 114-105 road victory over the Washington Wizards.

Tonight, the Wine and Gold look for their first home win since February 14 when they host the Dallas Mavericks.

Here are four things to expect in the second and final matchup between these two teams this regular season.

1. Plenty of Cavaliers Free Throws

So far this season, Cleveland is averaging 16.2 free throws on 21.1 attempts per game, both of which rank 23rd in the NBA.

However, over their last three contests, the Cavaliers have averaged 20.7 free throws on 28.0 attempts per game, which rank third and second in the league, respectively.

2. Allen Stuffing the Stat Sheet

In the Wine and Gold’s last meeting against Dallas on December 27, center Jarrett Allen had one of the most productive games of his career. He recorded 24 points, a season-high 23 rebounds, six assists, and two steals.

In Cleveland’s last game against Washington, the 25-year-old tallied 22 points, 12 rebounds, five assists, and a block.

Dec 27, 2023; Dallas, Texas, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (31) drives to the basket during the second quarter against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center / © Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

3. A Cleveland Reunion

Former Cavaliers guard Kyrie Irving will be playing in Cleveland as a member of the Mavericks for the first time.

The 31-year-old ranks top-10 in Cavaliers franchise history in: three-pointers (723, fourth), assists (2,115, tied for fifth), points (8,232, eighth), field goals (3,009, eighth), and free throws made (1,491, ninth).

4. Mavericks Playing with Motivation

Two nights ago, Dallas had a season-best seven-game winning streak snapped with a loss to the Indiana Pacers.

Also, in its last game against Cleveland, the Mavericks blew a 20-point lead at home, as the Cavaliers came away with a 113-110 victory.