Cavaliers Face Three Keys Against 8-1 Sixers

Cleveland has started the season 8-1, but faces a difficult test against Philadelphia. The Cavaliers’ challenge, as they prepare for the game, is to make better use of their strengths rather than continually adjusting to opponents, the preview argues.

The first priority is improving the partnership between Donovan Mitchell and James Harden. Harden has handled the ball frequently, while Mitchell has had fewer chances to make decisions and, in the most recent loss to Oklahoma City, was not aggressive offensively until late. Harden, who leads Cleveland in minutes, said, “Consistency is key.”

The Cavaliers also need to protect the paint against a Philadelphia team capable of attacking the basket quickly. The preview points to Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe as threats, and says Cleveland’s interior defense, including the work of Evan Mobley and Peyton Watson, will be important. Philadelphia has had stretches of poor perimeter shooting, making it especially important for Cleveland to make drives difficult.

A third focus is using lineups that force opponents to adjust. Cleveland has not often played Jarrett Allen and Mobley together, and the preview questions why the two big men have not shared more time, particularly at the end of games. It cites Oklahoma City and Washington as teams that have used two large players together effectively.

The preview says Cleveland should draw on its approach against Milwaukee and settle on lineups that impose its preferred style. If the Cavaliers can address these issues, it argues, they have a chance to beat Philadelphia.