"The game comes after an 18 point loss to the Houston Rockets that showcased the issues Toronto has faced to start the year. This season, the Raptors have struggled to deal with the plethora of size thrown at them, and have allowed teams to shoot 72.5% at the rim. Things won't be any easier tonight, as the Raptors are still without Jakob Poeltl and will be facing Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen."
"Coming off a disappointing second round exit to the Indiana Pacers, the Cavaliers have had an injury-riddled start to their season. Their starting point guard, Darius Garland underwent toe surgery in June and is yet to make his season debut. Then, in August, it was announced that Max Strus would miss time to start the year after undergoing surgery to repair a Jones fracture in his foot."
"Despite the injuries to two of last season's starters, the Cavaliers have managed to stay afloat. While it's largely due to the incredible offensive output of Donovan Mitchell, who is averaging 28 points per game, others in the lineup have stepped up as well. Sam Merrill - who will miss tonight's game with a hip injury - has taken full advantage of his spot in the starting lineup, increasing his scoring from 7.2 points per game last season to 17.3 in the four games he's played."
The Raptors begin NBA Cup group play against the Cavaliers coming off an 18-point loss to the Houston Rockets. The Raptors have struggled against opposing size, allowing teams to shoot 72.5% at the rim, and will be without center Jakob Poeltl facing Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. The Cavaliers are 3-2 with a +1.0 net rating and have had an injury-riddled start, missing Darius Garland and Max Strus. Donovan Mitchell is averaging 28 points per game, Sam Merrill has surged to 17.3 points in four starts, and Evan Mobley leads defensively with 3.6 stocks per game while modifying his offensive approach.
Read at Raptors Republic
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