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The Cleveland Cavaliers are looking to sweep the home-at-home against the Milwaukee Bucks Wednesday night, and once again they’ll need to do it shorthanded.
Who? Milwaukee Bucks (13-13) at Cleveland Cavaliers (20-6)
When? 7PM
Where? Quicken Loans Arena, Cleveland, Ohio
Where on my eyeballs? NBA TV
What has been clear to this point in the season series, is that the Milwaukee Bucks are a huge pain to play against. Their length and relentless attack of the rim is disruptive and forces you to play with an attention to detail that is usually reserved for the playoffs. On Tuesday the Cavs relied far too heavily on isolation ball and were saved by hot shooting from behind the arc. They will need to play far better team ball tonight if they want to avoid tired legs getting the best of them.
At this point, the injury to J.R. Smith’s right thumb has not been diagnosed, but there seems to be no chance that he will play against Milwaukee. If the team sticks with their rotation as of late, it will mean that DeAndre Liggins will draw the assignment of starting shooting guard. Kevin Love also remains questionable for Wednesday’s contest with the knee injury he suffered against the Lakers over the weekend.
With James playing nearly 48 minutes last night, the team will likely need to rely more heavily on Kyrie Irving, as well as a team-oriented attack to get past the Bucks. Milwaukee is a team that gets up in games against contenders and likes to use these contests as a measuring stick. With nothing to lose and looking for revenge, the Bucks are sure to put up another tough fight.
On a more fun note, Matthew Dellavedova will receive his championship ring tonight prior to tip-off. Like Mozgov earlier this week, Delly is likely to receive a very warm welcome from his former teammates and the crowd in his return.
Fear The Sword’s Fearless Prediction:
The Cavaliers have shown an ability to win ugly before. If Love is out for this game, that will be exactly what they need to do. I don’t expect a high field goal percentage from either team, so the game will likely come down to who takes better care of the ball and hits the glass harder. Even down two starters, the Cavs still have the most talent out of either team. Cavs win 98-93.