Preseason Recap: 76ers 113, Cavs 97 (or, When Adversity Strikes)

Here are some quick thoughts as the Cavs were unable to overcome a Tyrese Maxey-led first quarter blitz to the tune of 33-20, en route to a 113-97 loss. Let’s dive right in…

1. DG and DMitch face their first adversity

Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell finally faced their first adversity of the season as teammates with both players quite simply laying an egg in the first quarter. DG and DMitch were utterly passive (combined for 19 shots in over 50 minutes) and indecisive (combined for 10 assists, nine turnovers). The offense looked best when Garland or Mitchell actually looked to score, which wasn’t often enough. This was expected, after all they are playing game two of the preseason. The most concerning part about their play was their inability to adjust and feed the hot hand in Caris LeVert. LeVert clearly had it going and neither guy tried to manipulate the game to create mismatches for LeVert to attack. But again, it’s preseason… these things take a lot of time in practice to learn.

2. J.B. silences the Caris haters, Caris defenders rejoice

There’s no question many Cavs fans voiced their displeasure at the idea of starting Caris LeVert at the three, saying that he was either too small, couldn’t shoot, or couldn’t defend. Yet Coach J.B. Bickerstaff captures another coaching “W” by going with Caris LeVert’s offensive versatility and defensive intensity to help take the heat off DG and DMitch. Regular listeners of the podcast know that yours truly has been the resident Caris defender, and now all can see why I’m sitting here smiling serenely, basking in the glow of another victorious agenda. According to realgm.com stats, LeVert’s minutes rank tops on the Cavs’ preseason roster in offensive efficiency (131.4 ortg). He’s top five in effective field goal percentage and assist percentage. He leads all starters in net rating at +16.3. The Caris bandwagon is starting to fill up, secure your spot today!

3. What’s up with Jarrett Allen?

If there was anyone’s play to be concerned about thus far in the preseason, it’d have to be Jarrett Allen’s. He sports the worst net rating among starters by far (-8.1). While he had a better night offensively last night with 19 points on 15 attempts, he’s still at a sub-50% true shooting percentage for the preseason. What’s more concerning is his defensive activity, especially rim protection (a paltry-for-JA 1.7% block rate), has been virtually non-existent to start the preseason. The rebounding activity has also been subpar (20.4% rebound rate, JA’s career average is at 23.8%). Of course there are plenty of mitigating circumstances (small sample, bad matchup against Joel Embiid, Doc Rivers going small ball yesterday). But, if there’s one guy yours truly wants to see some progression from this preseason, it’s Jarrett Allen.

4. J.B. = Major Payne?

One of the main themes coming from the Cavs’ training camp was how Coach J.B. Bickerstaff has emphasized conditioning in their practices. Guys have been quoted saying this was their hardest training camp they could remember. One can’t help but think that may have played a role in the Cavs’ disastrous start yesterday. It could explain Jarrett Allen’s lack of defensive activity as well as how Donovan Mitchell goes 3-6 from the free throw line with a bunch of front of the rim misses. Perhaps J.B. needs to cool it with the “Major Payne” act.

5. Shout out to Mamadi Diakite

Mamadi Diakite has put forth one helluva resumé this preseason as he continues to make noise for a roster spot. He leads the team in net rating (+30.9) and effective field goal percentage (87.5%). His stock rate is off the charts. He has a lot to learn about NBA speed and physicality, but Diakite has clearly demonstrated some NBA traits so far this preseason. Take a bow young man!

6. A word on Philly

Watching these past two games, it’s clear the Philadelphia 76ers should be talked about as a finalist/championship contender. They’re playing as though they’re on a mission. The offseason pickups of P.J. Tucker, Danuel House, and De’Anthony Melton were all solid pickups that will bring some schematic versatility to Philly’s attack. They’re clearly all in this season, these past two games were a great measuring stick for the Cavs.

7. Next up, Atlanta tomorrow night

The Cavs will have the chance to quickly redeem last night’s performance against the Atlanta Hawks tomorrow night. It’s unclear how the coaches will play it, but it could be a preview of the “Battle Royale of Newly-Minted Backcourts.” If so, it’ll be must watch TV, Go Cavs!

(All stats herein courtesy of RealGM.com)