These two East teams lock horns that pits the high-scoring Donovan Mitchell opposite reigning NBA MVP Joel Embiid, who’s being backed up by the rising Tyrese Maxey.
Catch the game tomorrow at 8:30 AM, Manila time.
AWAY: Cleveland Cavaliers (7-6, 4-3 AWAY)
Projected starting five:
- Darius Garland
- Donovan Mitchell (day-to-day)
- Max Strus
- Evan Mobley
- Jarrett Allen
The Cavaliers are finally gaining some steam after a slow start. They are now winners of three-straight games, averaging 112.7 points on 54% shooting in that span, alongside a healthy +11.4 net rating. Here’s the best part: leading scorer Donovan Mitchell has missed the last two contests and he’s a game-time decision for tomorrow.
Mitchell is putting up 29.0 points per game on the season, so they need his presence regardless if they’re in a groove or not. If Mitchell sits again, though, Darius Garland (19.6 PPG, 5.8 APG) is sure to have an added usage. He had 28 and 26 points during his backcourt mate’s absence. Third-year big man Evan Mobley is also there to provide damage, and he’ll be in an interesting match-up vs. Joel Embiid.
Probable Sixth Man of the Year candidate Caris LeVert (18.0 PPG) is also a game-time decision. Max Strus, who has 15.6/5.8/4.6/1.4 over his last five, will have an increased role if he’s unavailable again.
HOME: Philadelphia 76ers (10-3, 6-2 HOME)
Projected starting five:
- Tyrese Maxey
- DeAnthony Melton
- Tobias Harris
- Nic Batum
- Joel Embiid
The Sixers look to build a winning streak again. They have now won two in a row courtesy of sound offense, scoring 126 and 121 points in the high-octane victories.
Reigning league MVP Joel Embiid is maintaining his offensive prowess and stat-stuffing ways by keeping a 30-plus PPG average, which is where it has been since the 2021-22 season. He’s currently on the 31.9 PPG mark while also adding 11.2 boards and 6.2 assists. Tyrese Maxey, meanwhile, is making a case for a potential All-Star spot, as he has upped his scoring to 26.8 PPG on the season. He has to gain his efficiency back, though, seeing how his shots have plummeted to a 39.4% clip over his last four games.
Tobias Harris and DeAnthony Melton remain as the top secondary weapons for the Sixers. Both are having solid starts to the season.
Philly scored 120.5 PPG while allowing 111.5 per game.
PREDICTION:
Handicap: The Sixers (-7.5) don’t cover.
Over/Under: The total goes over 220.5