What To Expect In First Clippers-Cavaliers Matchup

Three nights ago, the Cleveland Cavaliers concluded a four-game road trip with a 112-100 road victory over the Milwaukee Bucks.

Tonight, the Wine and Gold will begin a two-game homestand with a contest against the Los Angeles Clippers.

Here are four things to expect in tonight’s matchup between the Clippers and Cavaliers.

1. A Big Game From A Strong Cleveland Duo

The Cavaliers’ duo of Donovan Mitchell and Jarrett Allen had a remarkable game in the team’s last contest against Milwaukee, combining for 56 points, 22 rebounds, seven assists, three blocks, and two steals.

This season, the pair is averaging a combined 42.9 points, 15.9 rebounds, 9.1 assists, 2.8 steals, and 1.6 blocks per game.

2. Evan Mobley Back In The Lineup

According to the NBA’s 6:30 p.m. Injury Report, Cleveland big man Evan Mobley is available to play tonight after missing the team’s last 22 games due to a left knee injury that eventually required arthroscopic surgery.

On the other side, Los Angeles’ starting center Ivica Zubac is out due to a right calf strain.

3. The NBA’s Two Hottest Teams On the Floor

Since December 16, the Clippers and Cleveland have been the two best teams in the NBA.

Los Angeles owns the league’s top win percentage in this span (80.0%, 16-4), while the Wine and Gold are next in line (77.8%, 14-4). Additionally, in their last 10 games, the Cavaliers are an NBA-best 9-1, while the Clippers are tied for the second-best record at 8-2.

4. A Productive Clippers Quartet

Los Angeles’ Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, James Harden, and Russell Westbrook have earned a combined 32 NBA All-Star selections throughout their storied careers.

The quartet is averaging a combined 75.4 points per game in its first season together.