Cleveland Cavaliers at Indiana Pacers Preview

Are the Playoffs Possible?

I won’t put this out of the question, but it is WAY too early to tell this. Cleveland has played exceptionally well based on the expectations they’ve had coming into the year. They’re playing like a real team. The chemistry isn’t all the way, which may be scary. Their ball movement looks impressive, and it’s how basketball is meant to play. Now, the playoffs may be a stretch, though.

I love how the Cavaliers are spreading the touches all around. Kevin Love and Tristan Thompson are proving to be the leaders of the team, which is great. If the Cavaliers want to be successful, they will need to continue to run things through their leaders. Tristan Thompson may actually be a dark horse pick for Most Improved Player, although it is still very early. 

Keys to Winning

• Keep doing what you’re doing! Cleveland plays best when everyone does their job. This is when ball movement and shot selection is at it’s best. The Cavs cannot go away from this.
• Continue to let Thompson and Love dominate. Each of them has been scoring well and tearing up the boards. Keep feeding them and letting them do their thing!
• Run the break. Cleveland has played very well defensively since the season opener. They need to consistently get out on the fast break after they finish defensive possessions with a rebound.
• Keep on spreading the love, simply.

My Game Prediction

The best-case scenario would be for the Cavaliers to keep building from their last win and go on a streak. But, they should be worried about doing the cliche, “taking it one game at a time.” Cleveland has already beat Indiana once this season. Let’s hope they make it two in a row. I am going to go ahead and predict that they will win this one 119-108. I think if they continue to play the way they are, they can handle the Pacers pretty well.

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