Cavaliers Aim for 16th Straight Win Against Grizzlies Tonight

CLEVELAND, Ohio — The Cleveland Cavaliers are set to face the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum on Friday at 8 p.m. ET in a highly anticipated NBA matchup. The Cavaliers, riding a historic 15-game winning streak, hope to extend their streak to 16 and establish a new franchise record for consecutive wins.

The Cavaliers (55-10), already secured in the playoffs with the top seed in the Eastern Conference, are in strong form on the road with a 25-6 record. However, they will be missing key player Donovan Mitchell due to a groin injury. Despite his absence, Cleveland has proven resilient, winning all five games without him this season.

On the other side, the Grizzlies (42-24) are enjoying a four-game winning streak and are one of the most formidable teams at home, holding a record of 24 wins out of 34 games at FedExForum this season. With a strong roster, they look to capitalize on Cleveland’s injury and maintain their playoff positioning in the Western Conference.

“It’s always tough to win on the road, especially against a team like Memphis,” said Cavaliers head coach J.B. Bickerstaff. “We’re confident in our supporting cast to step up. Players like Ty Jerome have shown they can produce when it counts.”

Jerome has performed admirably in Mitchell’s absence, clearing 19.5 points and assists in two of four recent games. His elevated role in the offense will be crucial against Memphis, a team known for its fast pace of play.

In the frontcourt, the Cavaliers will rely on the veteran presence of Jarrett Allen and young star Evan Mobley to both defend and score effectively. Mobley has been a standout player this season, and his matchup against rookie Zach Edey from the Grizzlies will be key; Edey has struggled recently, averaging fewer than 10 points per game.

Furthermore, the Grizzlies could welcome back Jaren Jackson Jr., who was upgraded to questionable due to an ankle injury. Jackson’s presence on the court would significantly bolster the Grizzlies’ defense against Cleveland’s frontcourt.

Fans will recall that the Cavaliers and Grizzlies split their previous matchups this season. After winning the last encounter in a close contest, the Grizzlies will look to exploit Cleveland’s vulnerability without Mitchell.

<p“Each game is a different challenge,” said Grizzlies guard Ja Morant. “We have to be ready to match their intensity and control the game early.”

The teams clash at a critical moment for both franchises. Memphis will look to cement their playoff spot, and the Cavaliers will continue their pursuit of history with their winning streak. Expect a high-stakes showdown with playoff implications on the line.

The odds heading into the game have the Cavaliers listed as 2-point favorites. The over/under stands at 244.5, indicating expectations for a high-scoring affair.

This matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter, showcasing some of the best players in the league and their aspirations as both teams gear up for the postseason.