The Cleveland Cavaliers are looking to bounce back after a disappointing 1-1 start to their season. While they've displayed promising moments in their opening two games, late-game execution issues have highlighted areas needing improvement. On Monday evening, they'll face a stern test when the Minnesota Timberwolves visit Rocket Arena.
Minnesota has made an explosive start to their campaign following their blockbuster summer acquisition of LaMelo Ball. The Timberwolves have dominated their first two opponents, defeating the Miami Heat and Orlando Magic by a total margin of 47 points to sit at 2-0. They're scheduled to face the Toronto Raptors on Sunday before traveling to Cleveland.
The Monday night matchup tips off at 7 PM and will be broadcast on DAZN, WUAB Channel 43, RESN, and NBA League Pass. Betting lines have not yet been established for this contest.
Cleveland will be without several players due to injury and roster moves. Nae'Qwan Tomlin remains sidelined with a back issue, Khalifa Diop is out with a left knee injury, and Ernest Udeh Jr. has been assigned to the G League. For Minnesota's Sunday game against Toronto, Donte DiVincenzo is listed as unavailable due to a right Achilles problem.
The Cavaliers are expected to start James Harden alongside Donovan Mitchell in the backcourt, with Peyton Watson, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen rounding out the first five. Minnesota's projected starting lineup features their new acquisition LaMelo Ball paired with Anthony Edwards, Jaden McDaniels appearing twice in the lineup card, and Rudy Gobert anchoring the defense. Cleveland will wear their Black Statement Edition uniforms for this home game.
Last season's series between these teams ended in a split. Their most recent meeting on January 10 saw the Cavaliers prevail 146-134 at home. According to Cleaning the Glass statistics from last year's regular season, Cleveland posted an offensive rating of 118.9 (8th in the league), defensive rating of 115.0 (15th), and net rating of plus-3.9 (9th). Minnesota recorded an offensive rating of 116.8 (14th), defensive rating of 113.2 (6th), and net rating of plus-3.6 (10th).
This matchup will test whether Cleveland can tighten up their fourth-quarter play against a confident Minnesota squad riding high from their strong start.
