Dec 19, 2024; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Royce O'Neale (00) against the Indiana Pacers at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Can the Cavs end their skid against a shorthanded Suns squad?
With their full rotation available, can the Cavsa reclaim their dominance on the road against the Suns?
The Cleveland Cavaliers face a crucial test on the road against the Phoenix Suns. It isn’t a test just in pursuit of a victory but in reestablishing their identity before the postseason. A three-game losing streak, the Cavs’ longest since late January, has raised concerns about their ability to maintain consistency, especially in the second half.
While dropping games to solid teams like the Clippers, Kings, and Magic isn’t catastrophic, how they’ve lost is troubling. Second-half collapses, defensive lapses, and rebounding struggles have plagued them, making this matchup with the Suns an opportunity for a much-needed course correction.
For the first time in weeks, the Cavs will have their full regular rotation available. This is a significant boost as they look to break their skid. Meanwhile, the Suns will be shorthanded, missing two key contributors Bradley Beal (strained left hamstring) and Mason Plumlee (left quadriceps injury). With Phoenix fighting to hold onto a play-in spot, this game will have a playoff-like intensity, forcing Cleveland to bring its best.
The numbers tell part of the story behind Cleveland’s struggles. The Cavs have been outscored by a combined 57 points in the second halves of their last three losses. Defensive intensity has wavered, and their inability to finish possessions on the glass has allowed opponents to capitalize on second-chance points.
These are not the hallmarks of a team built for a deep playoff run. With less than a month remaining in the regular season, the Cavs must tighten their execution and return to the disciplined, high-energy style that propelled them to one of the East’s top records.
