What To Expect In Final Cleveland Cavaliers-Atlanta Hawks Matchup
Last night, the Cleveland Cavaliers earned their 40th victory of the season with a wild comeback against the Boston Celtics.
Tonight, the Wine and Gold seek their third win in their last four games when they face the Atlanta Hawks.
Here are four things to expect in the fourth and final matchup between these two teams this regular season.
1. Notable Absences for Both Teams
According to the NBA’s 6:30 p.m. Injury Report, the Cavaliers will be without three starters in Donovan Mitchell (left knee bone bruise), Max Strus (right knee strain), and Evan Mobley (left ankle sprain).
Mitchell will also miss Cleveland’s next game on Friday, Strus is out for his second consecutive game, and Mobley suffered his injury in the Wine and Gold’s game last night.
For Atlanta, point guard Trae Young is out due to a torn ligament in his left fifth finger.
2. Wade Building Onto His Momentum
Last night, Cavaliers forward Dean Wade scored a career-high 23 points, 20 of which came in the fourth quarter.
In two games against the Hawks this season, the 27-year-old has averaged 16.5 points and 4.5 three-pointers per contest, shooting a remarkable 69.2% from beyond the arc.
Jan 20, 2024; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward Dean Wade (32) scores a basket over Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson (1) during the first half at State Farm Arena.
© Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
3. A Substantial Murray Game
Atlanta guard Dejounte Murray has averaged 19.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1.3 steals per game in three games against Cleveland this season.
Overall, the 27-year-old is averaging 21.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, 5.7 assists, and 1.3 steals per contest this season.
4. Cavaliers Looking for a Sweep
The Cavaliers have won each of their previous three games against the Hawks this season.
In these contests, Cleveland has outscored Atlanta by an average margin of 123.7-106.3, and outrebounded them by an average margin of 51.0-41.0.
