The Cleveland Cavaliers meet the defending NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday at 1 p.m. EST on ABC, one of only two regular-season encounters between the clubs. Injuries, however, will keep three key Thunder players—Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams and perimeter defender Alex Caruso—out of the lineup.
Without that trio, Oklahoma City’s scoring production typically dips, but the defense remains stout behind Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein. The combination still forces opponents to make quick, accurate reads.
For Cleveland, the game offers a timely barometer. Newly acquired guard James Harden is working his way into the Cavaliers’ system, and the Thunder’s disciplined scheme is expected to expose any slow decisions or sloppy passes. Cleveland will try to create early separation, aware that Oklahoma City is less explosive offensively when its stars are sidelined.
Even with the absences, the matinee in Oklahoma City is viewed inside the Cavaliers’ locker room as a meaningful test of execution and focus.
Source: Hoops Wire
