Live Thread: Cavs @ Heat

Good evening CtB!

The Cavs travel south to the shores of Biscayne Bay to take on the 2022-23 Eastern Conference Champion Miami Heat in a possible playoff preview. Currently both teams are in the play-in mix and looking to break into the top six of the Eastern Conference standings. Miami has been mired in mediocrity after a hot streak at the beginning of November, while the Cavs are slowly heating up after a struggle to start the season. However, the Cavs should be looking for payback as the Heat destroyed the Cavs the day before Thanksgiving 129-96. Injuries will play a role in this matchup as Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro are out for the Heat, and the Cavs are missing Ty Jerome and Caris LeVert and possibly Evan Mobley.

As far as the numbers go, the Heat are winning with their offense as opposed to their defense. They move the ball well, and score efficiently. On the other hand, the Cavs’ defense is starting to round into shape as they’ve finally broke into the top 10 in the NBA in defensive efficiency. If there’s anything the Cavs can exploit in this game, it’s Miami’s slower pace.

Tip off is scheduled for 8:00PM Eastern time and will broadcasted live on Bally Sports Ohio, Go Cavs!