The Cleveland Cavaliers and Philadelphia 76ers squared off in an Eastern Conference matchup, in what could be a potential playoff preview. Philadelphia was without Joel Embiid in the second game of a back-to-back, after he played on Tuesday night against Chicago. The Cavaliers took care of business tonight, winning their second straight game.
Donovan Mitchell Leads Cavaliers
Cleveland’s star guard was unstoppable. Mitchell scored 46 points, putting together 8 assists and 4 rebounds. He shot 71% from the field, which is the second-highest shooting percentage he’s had this season. Right now, he’s playing like a top 10 player in the league and deserves to be in the MVP conversation.
Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley combined for 47 points, 15 rebounds, and 5 blocks. The front court was also excellent in their win, and the Sixers had no answer to stop them. Darius Garland made his season debut after dealing with a toe injury. In 26 minutes, he had just 8 points, shooting 27% from the field. The expectations for his return were low because of his absence.
When at full force, the Cavaliers are one of the best teams in the East. Right now, they’re 5-3 and the fourth seed in the East. They’ve dealt with a handful of injuries this season and are starting to regain full strength. Allen has missed time because of a fractured finger in his left hand.
Philadelphia 76ers Struggle
The 76ers have now lost two straight games for the first time this season. Playing two games back to back against the top teams in the East, Philadelphia falls to 5-3 on the season. VJ Edgecombe struggled mightily, shooting just 21.4% from the field and scoring just 7 points.
Tyrese Maxey led the team in scoring tonight with 27 points, 7 rebounds, and 9 assists. Quentin Grimes was alongside Maxey, adding 27 points, 3 assists, and 3 rebounds. The 76ers’ defense continues to kill them, as they just couldn’t stop the Cavaliers. This has been their biggest weakness throughout the season, and it has really shone in the last two games.
Obviously, not having Embiid out there hurt them a ton, but even he has looked lackluster on defense at times. Getting Paul George back will solve many problems for this team on both sides of the ball. Head Coach Nick Nurse is putting out some questionable rotations due to the team’s lack of depth at wing. The 76ers have a long way to go, but should be getting some big reinforcements back relatively soon.
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