Predictions For Cavaliers Vs. Nets, NBA Opening Night
We've finally made it!
The Cleveland Cavaliers are back in action after a long summer of roster movement, rumors and anticipation for the upcoming season. Cleveland opens up on the road against the Brooklyn Nets as they begin the 2023-24 NBA season.
Here are a few predictions for how Wednesday night's game could shake out.
Strong Start From Evan Mobley
There's been a lot of talk about the jump Evan Mobley could take in Year 3 of his NBA career. Why not get a big game from him on the first night?
Mobley is likely to get a lot of playing time and extra looks considering Jarrett Allen has already been ruled out against the Nets. Plus, the Nets are also thin at center which could create some mismatches, especially if Mobley slides to the power forward.
The Nic Claxton vs. Evan Mobley battle will be an exciting one to watch, but Cleveland's big man is dynamic enough to get the upper hand. All of this could lead to a strong start for arguably the most important player on the Cavaliers.
Georges Niang Provides Spark
Cleveland will be shorthanded to start the season with Allen sidelined. This means that someone has to step up in order for the Cavs to win their first game. Why can't it be newcomer Georges Niang?
Niang could easily be placed in the starting lineup as the power forward if J.B. Bickerstaff wants to roll out a non-small-ball starting five. Even if Niang comes off the bench, he'll have a big role, as the frontcourt remains thin.
This could be a game where Niang knocks down a number of big threes while providing floor spacing, which hopefully leads to a Cavs win. He won't be a player who consistently scores 15 points a night, but there will be a lot of opportunities for Niang to get going on Wednesday night.
Mar 23, 2023; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) looks to drive past Brooklyn Nets center Nic Claxton (33) in the second quarter at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports
© Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports
Cavaliers Opening Night Winner
The Brooklyn Nets have a solid young core of Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson and Cam Thomas with experienced players like Spencer Dinwiddie and Ben Simmons. However, the Cavs are still a better team on paper.
Cleveland has an All-Star starting backcourt of Darius Garland (assuming he plays) and Donovan Mitchell. The real difference-maker could be Cleveland's bench depth, which could help create separation when on the floor.
All of this will be enough for Cleveland to start the season 1-0.
