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  Debate

Debate

Can the Cavs' dream run survive the Celtics' challenge, or will Boston end their streak?

The Cleveland Cavaliers are scripting history with every match they play. They are 15-0! With this achievement, they share the second-best start to a season, trailing only the 2015-16 Golden State Warriors, who kicked off with a 24-0 streak. It’s an impressive feat, putting them in an elite company. But can Jayson Tatum and Co. put an end to this run to show them who’s the champion? Will they hand them the first defeat of the season, rubbing salt on the Eastern Conference semi-finals exit last season?

What’s more is that the C’s will be hosting the Cavs at their bastion, TD Garden. It’s going to be a challenge for sure. Cavs boss Kenny Atkinson has acknowledged the challenge, saying, “We’re excited. It’s going to be a great test for us. It’s great for our franchise.” He pointed out the challenge of Boston’s playing style, especially with five shooters on the floor. This unique aspect is something they need to prepare for.

A victory in this game would pretty much eliminate Boston from the NBA Cup, paving the way for a smooth path to winning the group. This would also provide a solid opportunity to advance through the Eastern Conference.

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The Cavs’ depth will be put to the test as they head to TD Garden for a group-stage NBA Cup matchup against the Boston Celtics on Tuesday. But it isn’t looking good for the Cavs. As per the injury report, Cleveland has several key role players dealing with injuries.

Can a well-rested Donovan Mitchell lead the Cavaliers to victory?

Mitchell was rested against the Charlotte Hornets so he can be at his 100% against the C’s. But there are others on the injury report. Caris LeVert has been an important bench player for the Cavaliers this season, averaging 11.8 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 4.5 assists. Now, he’s listed as questionable for the upcoming game due to left knee inflammation. This isn’t the first time knee issues have sidelined him—he’s already missed two games earlier this season. Hopefully, it’s not a lingering problem.

Isaac Okoro is questionable for Tuesday’s game against the Celtics after spraining his ankle in Cleveland’s win on Sunday. Atkinson didn’t have much information about Okoro’s status post-game, but there’s still some hope he’ll be available.

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Can the Cavs' dream run survive the Celtics' challenge, or will Boston end their streak?

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POSITIONSTARTER2nd3rd
PGDarius GarlandTy JeromeDonovan Mitchell
SGDonovan MitchellCaris LeVertSam Merrill
SFIsaac OkoroGeorges NiangDean Wade
PFEvan MobleyDean WadeGeorges Niang
CJarrett AllenEvan MobleyTristan Thompson

Max Strus remains out with the ankle sprain he suffered before the season started and won’t suit up on Tuesday. Dean Wade also won’t make the trip to Boston. He sprained his ankle after landing on Jarrett Allen’s foot and left the court, limping. Sam Merrill, listed as questionable for Tuesday, has already missed three games because of inflammation in his left ankle.

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Will the Celtics stomp on the Cavs’ dream run?

Payton Pritchard is dealing with a left thumb sprain and has been listed as questionable for the upcoming game. Losing Pritchard would be a significant setback, especially given his strong start this season. He’s been a spark off the bench, averaging 15.5 points per game. He’s definitely a contender for the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year.

POSITIONSTARTER2nd3rd
PGJrue HolidayPayton PritchardDerrick White
SGDerrick WhitePayton PritchardJaylen Brown
SFJaylen BrownSam HauserJayson Tatum
PFJayson TatumSam HauserJordan Walsh
CAl HorfordNeemias QuetaLuke Kornet

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Meanwhile, Kristaps Porziņģis remains out as he continues his recovery from surgery. Porzingis recently joined the Maine Celtics for practice. Looks like he could be back by December. The C’s only have these players on their report.

Winning every game so far, the Cavs have started the season in flawless fashion—there’s no better way to do it. Still, Boston holds the crown as the league’s top team. Until someone eliminates them from the playoffs, that title isn’t going anywhere.

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