Cavs vs. Wizards: Preview, odds, injury report, TV
CLEVELAND, Ohio - The Cavs secured their first win of 2024, trouncing the Wizards 140-101 on Wednesday night. Cleveland hopes to recreate their success against Washington again in their matchup on Friday.
The Cavaliers’ resilience has been on full display, especially considering the absences of key players Darius Garland (fractured jaw) and Evan Mobley (knee surgery).
While Cleveland has earned a reputation for their stifling defense this season, it was their diverse and improving offense that stole the spotlight in their latest victory. They scored a season-high 140 points while recording 37 assists on 54 made shots. This marked the ninth consecutive game in which they notched at least 25 assists as a team. The Cavaliers also made 13 triples in the first half alone, the most in a first half since March 3, 2017. In total, they connected on 20 of 42 attempts from beyond the arc.
The Wizards, on the other hand, struggled to keep pace, with Kyle Kuzma leading the team with 16 points. The Wizards shot just 41.6% from the field and 34.3% from 3-point range as the Cavs turned up the defensive intensity following a competitive first half.
As the Cavaliers prepare to face the Wizards once again on Friday at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, they aim to continue the showcase of their newfound offensive prowess and earn their first winning streak of the 2024 campaign.
Here’s what to know about the matchup:
Who: Cleveland Cavaliers (19-15) vs. Washington Wizards (6-27).
Series: Second meeting of the week.
Where: Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
When: 7:30 p.m. EST.
The point spread: Cavs minus-10.5; O/U 240.5
TV: Bally Sports Ohio
Injury report
Cavs: Darius Garland (jaw), OUT; Evan Mobley (knee), OUT; Ty Jerome (right ankle sprain), OUT.
Wizards: Landry Shamet (hamstring), QUESTIONABLE.
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