The Cleveland Cavaliers will host the Indiana Pacers on Friday night as part of the NBA Cup group play. Both teams are looking to improve their standings, but injuries may complicate their efforts.
Current Standings
The Cavaliers enter the matchup with a record of 10 wins and 6 losses. They are coming off a disappointing home loss to the Houston Rockets. In that game, De’Andre Hunter shone with 25 points and 4 rebounds, while Donovan Mitchell contributed 21 points and 3 rebounds.
On the other hand, the Pacers have struggled this season, currently holding a 2-13 record. However, they secured a win against the Charlotte Hornets, with Bennedict Mathurin leading the team with 24 points and 12 rebounds.
Injury Updates: Pacers
The Pacers face significant challenges with injuries, having six players ruled out for the game. These include:
- Aaron Nesmith (knee injury, expected to be out for at least a month)
- Obi Toppin
- Johnny Furphy
- Tyrese Haliburton
- Kam Jones
- Quenton Jackson
With such a depleted roster, other players will need to step up to help secure their third victory of the season.
Injury Updates: Cavaliers
The Cavaliers are also dealing with injuries, listing five players on their report. Darius Garland is questionable due to a toe injury that has kept him sidelined for the last five games. His potential return could offer a boost, but the team may opt to rest him further.
Jarrett Allen is also in question due to a sprained right middle finger after previously suffering a fractured left ring finger earlier this season. If Allen cannot play, Dean Wade and Nae-Qwan Tomlin might see increased minutes, while Evan Mobley may need to take on a greater role in the frontcourt.
Additionally, Sam Merrill and Max Strus have been ruled out due to lingering injuries.
Game Details
The highly anticipated matchup between the Pacers and Cavaliers is set to begin at 7:00 p.m. EST. Fans can catch the game live on Amazon Prime.
