Cavaliers vs. Nuggets: A Surprisingly Tough Matchup in Denver
The Cleveland Cavaliers are heading to Denver for a game that looks far more challenging than anticipated just a week ago. A blockbuster trade-deadline deal saw James Harden move from the Clippers to the Cavs in exchange for Darius Garland, significantly altering the landscape of this matchup. The Cavaliers’ revamped offense presents a formidable test for the Nuggets’ defense.
The Cavaliers’ Offensive Firepower
Both Harden and Donovan Mitchell are proven scoring threats, capable of lighting up the scoreboard from anywhere on the court. Mitchell is currently averaging a career-best 28.9 points per game, showcasing his consistent offensive prowess. While Harden, at 36, may not replicate his peak scoring numbers, he’s still a potent force, averaging 23 points and a remarkable 8 assists per game. This dual threat will undoubtedly put pressure on the Nuggets’ defensive rotations.
Denver has recently struggled with defensive consistency, allowing opponents open looks from beyond the arc. The recent loss against the Oklahoma City Thunder highlighted this vulnerability, with Cason Wallace sinking a career-high seven three-pointers, many of which were uncontested. Christian Braun and Julian Strawther will need to be at their best to contain Harden and Mitchell, preventing them from finding similar open opportunities.
Nuggets’ Opportunities and Challenges
Despite the Cavaliers’ offensive upgrades, Denver holds several advantages. The Cavs’ defense is merely league-average, and Harden is known for his defensive liabilities. Furthermore, Cleveland is without key post player Evan Mobley, sidelined for the next few weeks. The Cavaliers have also had limited time to integrate Harden into their system, leaving room for the Nuggets to exploit.
The Nuggets boast the NBA’s best offense, averaging an impressive 120.4 points per game. Their recent performance in Chicago, where they scored a season-high 136 points, demonstrates their offensive capabilities. Julian Strawther’s emergence as a reliable perimeter threat, filling in for injured players like Aaron Gordon, Peyton Watson, and Spencer Jones, adds another dimension to their attack. Strawther’s recent play has been a key factor in the Nuggets’ success.
Injury Concerns and Game Outlook
However, the Nuggets aren’t without their concerns. Jamal Murray is listed as questionable with right-hip inflammation. While he assured coach David Adelman he was “OK” after the last game, his availability remains uncertain.
Given the offensive firepower on both sides, a high-scoring affair is likely. This scenario favors the Nuggets, who lead the league in shooting efficiency. However, if the Cavaliers establish an early lead, the Nuggets will need coach Adelman to devise effective rotations to regain control. This game promises to be a thrilling contest, testing the resilience and adaptability of both teams.
This article was originally published on www.nugglove.com as Harden and the Cavs present a surprisingly difficult matchup for the Nuggets.
