Fear The Sword reported that the league's late-game review found two missed calls that went Cleveland's way in the overtime win over Minnesota. The Cavaliers host Washington tonight and play in Atlanta tomorrow.
Did the Cavs get lucky against Minnesota?
Partly, if the league's review holds. Fear The Sword reported that the NBA found two missed calls late in the 127-125 overtime win, both in Cleveland's favor. The win still counts and the record is 2-1. But a team that needed overtime and a friendly whistle to beat Minnesota has no reason to treat that night as proof of anything. Take the win and fix the finish.
What is Washington bringing to Rocket Arena tonight?
Two players who can beat you on their own. Trae Young is averaging 22.3 points and 11.0 assists, and Anthony Davis 22.8 points and 9.3 boards. Kyshawn George adds 17.8. Brian Keefe's team is 2-2, lost its last game and is playing its third straight away from home. Justin Champagnie, AJ Dybantsa, Tristan Vukcevic and Jamir Watkins are all out. Cleveland has nobody on the injury report.
Why does 2-1 feel shakier than it looks?
Because Cleveland has been outscored per possession. The offense rates 108.8 and the defense 109.8, a net of minus-0.9. The two wins came by four and two points, and the loss in Philadelphia was by eight. King James Gospel argued that even with Mobley and Allen, the Cavs can't hold the defensive glass. Tonight Washington, playing at a 102.9 pace, will test that.
Does Meleek Thomas deserve more minutes?
After one game, yes. Thomas scored 16 in 19.1 minutes in his debut and made 80 percent of his threes. ESPN reported that the Cavaliers credited him with sparking the overtime win. A Cleveland.com podcast is already asking what his rise means for Craig Porter Jr. Kenny Atkinson has to find those minutes somewhere.
Will Jarrett Allen be on the floor at the end of games?
That is the open question. Allen is giving Cleveland 15.0 points and 8.0 rebounds in 27.5 minutes. Even so, a Cleveland.com podcast asked whether he will keep being left out of closing lineups. With the glass already a problem and $28.0M on his deal, Atkinson will have to keep explaining why Allen sits late.
When do the Cavaliers play the Wizards?
Tonight, October 28, at Rocket Arena. Cleveland then plays at Atlanta on October 29 on NBA TV.
Are any Cavaliers injured for the Wizards game?
No Cavalier is on the injury report. Washington is without Justin Champagnie, AJ Dybantsa, Tristan Vukcevic and Jamir Watkins.
