Washington Wizards vs. Cleveland Cavaliers Game Predictions (1-3-23)

Originally posted on Washington Wizards on SI
By Gage Sheets | Last updated Jan 3, 2024 9:34 AM ET

The Washington Wizards (6-26) are on the road to face the Cleveland Cavaliers (18-15) at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse in Cleveland, Ohio. Tip-off is at 7:00 p.m. E.S.T.

This is the first time the Wizards are matching up with the Cavaliers and it is the first of two games in Cleveland this week.

Washington has a tough week coming up, playing five straight games against projected playoff teams.

The only guy on the injury report for the Wizards is forward Danilo Gallinari.

Let's see how the Inside The Wizards staff views the game tonight.

Gage Sheets: Cavaliers 119 Wizards 109

This might turn into an extended losing streak for Washington with the schedule ahead.

They have no doubt showed improvements, but it hasn't been enough to win games.

For the Wizards to pull this off and keep it competitive they need to guard the paint and center Daniel Gafford has to stay out of foul trouble.

Cleveland isn't a good three-point shooting team, if Washington can force them to take jump shots and prevent offensive rebounds, they have a shot.

The Wizards are top in the league in field goal percentage, 68.8 percent, within five feet of the basket, but the Cavaliers are top five in defensive field goal percentage against shots within five feet, 60.9 percent.

It is a battle of two strengths and defense always plays which is why I have Cleveland winning.

Eventually, the Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell will make shots or get to the free throw line, and it will be the difference.

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This article first appeared on Washington Wizards on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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