The Cleveland Cavaliers (14-11) are set to face off against the Washington Wizards (3-19) in an exciting matchup on Friday at 7 p.m. EST in Washington. The Wizards are looking to break their three-game losing streak as they prepare for the Cavaliers, who currently sit seventh in the Eastern Conference.
Game Overview
Washington has struggled this season, with a record of 2-15 against Eastern Conference teams. However, they have shown resilience, winning three out of four games when they win the turnover battle. Despite averaging 16.2 turnovers per game, the Wizards are hopeful for a turnaround.
Cavaliers’ Season Performance
The Cavaliers have performed better in conference play, holding an 11-8 record. They rank eighth in the league for fast break points, averaging 15.9 per game. Donovan Mitchell leads Cleveland with an impressive average of 30.5 points and 5.5 assists.
Head-to-Head Matchup
This will be the second meeting between these teams this season. Their previous matchup on November 8 ended with the Cavaliers triumphing 148-115. Mitchell contributed significantly with 24 points, while CJ McCollum led the Wizards with 25 points.
Player Statistics
- Wizards:
- CJ McCollum: 18.6 points, 3.4 assists
- Tristan Vukcevic: 18.0 points in last 10 games
- Cavaliers:
- Donovan Mitchell: 30.5 points, 5.5 assists
- Dean Wade: 1.0 made 3-pointers in last 10 games
Recent Performance
In their last ten games, the Wizards have won only two, averaging 111.1 points, while their opponents scored an average of 126.6 points per game. Meanwhile, the Cavaliers have managed a 4-6 record, averaging 115.0 points with opponents averaging 114.2 points.
Injuries Impacting Teams
Injuries could play a critical role in the game outcome:
- Wizards:
- Khris Middleton: day to day (knee)
- Sharife Cooper: day to day (calf)
- Tre Johnson: out (hip)
- Bilal Coulibaly: out (oblique)
- Corey Kispert: out (thumb)
- Alex Sarr: day to day (adductor)
- Cavaliers:
- Sam Merrill: day to day (hand)
- Max Strus: out (foot)
- Tyrese Proctor: day to day (personal)
- Larry Nance Jr.: out (calf)
- Jarrett Allen: out (finger)
With both teams eager for a win, this matchup promises to be an entertaining showdown. The Cavaliers hope to maintain momentum, while the Wizards aim to end their losing streak amidst tough circumstances.
