Thunder vs. Cavaliers: What to Expect in Today's Matchup
The Oklahoma City Thunder are set to face off against the Cleveland Cavaliers at home today, but they'll be doing so without several key players. Alex Caruso is sidelined after suffering a left ankle sprain during OKC's recent victory over the Brooklyn Nets. The Thunder, boasting a 43-14 record, will also miss Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Ajay Mitchell due to various injuries.
On the other side, the Cavaliers, with a 36-21 record, welcome back Evan Mobley. He returns after managing a left calf injury and missed the team's win against the Charlotte Hornets.
Game Details
- Time: Noon CST
- Broadcast: Available on Fubo
Prediction and Analysis
The absence of key players like Gilgeous-Alexander, Williams, and Mitchell poses a significant challenge for OKC. While they managed to secure a win against Brooklyn, Cleveland presents a tougher test.
The Cavaliers are third in the league in scoring, averaging 119.8 points per game, and have bolstered their lineup with the addition of James Harden. With Caruso also out, OKC's defensive options against Cleveland's dynamic guard duo of Harden and Donovan Mitchell are limited.
This could tip the scales in favor of the Cavaliers, with a predicted scoreline of Cleveland 117, OKC 111.
Betting Odds
- Spread: Cavaliers by 2.5
- Over/Under: 225.5
- Moneyline: OKC +125 | Cleveland -150
Injury Report
Thunder:
- Alex Caruso (left ankle sprain) - Out
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (abdominal strain) - Out
- Ajay Mitchell (abdominal strain, left ankle sprain) - Out
- Thomas Sorber (right ACL surgical recovery) - Out
- Jalen Williams (right hamstring strain) - Out
Cavaliers:
- Tristan Enaruna (G League two-way) - Out
- Riley Minix (G League two-way) - Out
- Max Strus (left foot surgery) - Out
Projected Starters
Cavaliers:
- Donovan Mitchell
- James Harden
- Jaylon Tyson
- Evan Mobley
- Jarrett Allen
As the Thunder navigate these injury challenges, the game offers a chance to see how their depth players step up against a formidable Cleveland squad. Keep an eye on how the Thunder adapt and if they can find a way to counter the Cavaliers' offensive firepower.