Preseason: Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Philadelphia 76ers gamethread

Oct 5, 2022 - 10:30 PM

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Cleveland Cavaliers’ basketball is back as they go on the road to take on the Philadelphia 76ers in their preseason opener. The Cavs are expected to play their starters with the exception of Evan Mobley. Cleveland with also be without the services of Dylan Windler who did not travel with the team due to a right ankle sprain.

You never want to make too much from a game where the primary goal isn’t to win. That said, it’ll be fun to talk about basketball that is being played again. This will also be our first look at how Donovan Mitchell fits with the Cavs and our first look at the new jerseys in a game setting.

Here’s the announced starters for tonight.

I’m surprised to see Kevin Love and Caris LeVert in the starting lineup. Obviously, Love won’t be starting once Mobley has returned, but it’s still interesting when you consider Love started only four times last year despite the amount of injuries the Cavs dealt with and him playing in 74 games.

LeVert may not stick as the starting three spot for the start of the regular season. That said, he’s the best player among the group vying for that position. If he shows that he can fit alongside two other high usage players, which is a big if, then there’s no reason to not pencil him in as the starting three.