The Cleveland Cavaliers are looking to create some consistency after an up-and-down to the start to their season.
Injuries have been a big part of this NBA rollercoaster ride for the Cavs, especially in the backcourt.
Darius Garland has missed five games and Donovan Mitchell is dealing with a hamstring issue that has forced him to miss the team’s last two games.
Tuesday will be Mitchell’s third straight on the bench, as the Cavs have already ruled him out against the 76ers.
Philadelphia (9-3) has jumped out to a strong start to the season, winning eight straight before losing back-to-back games to the Pacers and Celtics last week.
They rebounded with two road victories over the weekend, downing the Hawks and Nets, and now sit at 10-3 and in second place in the East.
The Cavs own a 4-3 road record this season, while the “over” has hit five times in their seven away games.
Cleveland has one of the toughest teams to handicap this season because of all the injuries to key players, especially Mitchell. It seems like at least one important piece is missing every game.
Tuesday will be no different.
Besides Mitchell, forward Isaac Okoro has been ruled out and Caris LeVert is questionable with soreness in his left knee.
Dean Wade, whom the Cavs value for his ability to defend multiple positions, has been starting and looks as if that will continue tonight.
Betting on the NBA Draft
With all the injuries, Cleveland has shown an ability to hit overs at a consistent clip on the road, while Philadelphia has cashed the over more times than not this season.
The total for this game opened at 222.5, but currently is down to 219.
The Pick: Over 219 total points (-110, FanDuel)
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