Cleveland hopes to defeat Chicago tonight in order to extend its winning streak to the longest of the season.
The Cleveland Cavaliers will play their first game on the court tonight after winning last Thursday’s 2024 NBA Paris Game against the Brooklyn Nets.
Cleveland will host the Chicago Bulls to start a two-game homestand in the Central Division.
In the two teams’ second meeting of the season, here are four things to watch.
1. Strus in the Lineup: Max Strus, a swingman for the Cavaliers who has played in every game this season, departed his team’s most recent game early because of stiffness in his right knee.
However, the 27-year-old is eligible to play today, per the NBA’s 6:30 p.m. ET Injury Report.
2. Crucial Support For Both Groups
One of the important players for the Cavaliers and Bulls who was sidelined during their previous game on December 23 will be available.
Star guard Donovan Mitchell of Cleveland is ranked among the NBA’s top-10 scorers with 27.9 points per game, sixth overall, and a career-best 1.9 steals per game, fourth.
Zach LaVine is a standout guard for Chicago who averages 20.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 0.9 steals per game right now.
3. Robust Cavaliers Barrier
The Cavaliers, who stopped the Bulls to just 95 points in their previous meeting in Chicago, are ready to have a solid defensive game.
In terms of points per game (110.6, 27th), field goal percentage (45.9%, 26th), and assists per game (24.1, 28th), the Bulls are also among the bottom five in the N
4. Both Teams Want To Maintain Their Good Pace
Before tonight’s game, Cleveland and Chicago are both riding high.
At four games, the Cavaliers hold the longest winning run in the Eastern Conference. This is tied for the longest streak they have had all season.
Conversely, the Bulls have triumphed in four of their last five contests.