Live Thread: Cavs vs 76ers

The Cavaliers are coming off their biggest win of the year: an improbable 22 point comeback against the Miami Heat. The effort saw the unleashing the Larry Nance, small forward, triple post offense. I had lots more to say about it, but no time to say it. Suffice to say that he won’t be going against Duncan Robinson every night, but if you don’t think Larry can hold his own against most NBA small forwards, then you don’t know Junior.

Kevin Porter Junior’s 30 after being ejected then going 0-5 in the two games leading up to Monday was a revelation as well. Similarly, Darius Garland’s steady play in crunch time was another big and unexpected contribution. It all added up to a hell of a second half.

Tonight should be an interesting challenge as Sixers are 9-20 on the road. They’ll be without Ben Simmons who is out indefinitely with a bad back (nerve impingement). They’ll also be without Norvel Pelle. (who?) Cleveland welcomes back Alec Burks, who hit three game winners in nine games last year. So that’s fun.

Cleveland will be without Andre Drummond who has a strained calf, which is a nice way of saying he’s stunk on ice so far with the Cavs. Alfonzo McKinnie is out too while. Dante Exum had his ankle sprained badly against the Heat and will be out “indefinitely.”

Koby said, "No tank you." https://t.co/qmFCNQbu5x

— HoopsDogg (@oldseaminer) February 26, 2020

I predict no more Larry at the three, and a lot more Sexland as Koby tries to get this team back on the losing track, and the Cavs lose this one 105-113.