While the term “slump” may be a bit of a reach here, there is no denying that the Cleveland Cavaliers have some work to do. After getting spanked by the Portland Trailblazers Wednesday night several Cavs players came forward and all voiced the same opinion: we need more practice. Kevin Love had this to say to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin on why more practice is needed:
“Not only to get Kyle integrated and comfortable, but we just need a little touch up. Whether it’s some of our shots or some of our plays, getting out in transition, playing with pace. We’re always a better team when we do that. Practice time would be great for us, but it’s just hard to find right now.”
The Cavs have had to deal with several obstacles over the last few weeks including the league-wide flu bug. Kevin Love missed time from food poisoning that caused him to lose over 10 pounds in 2 days. Kyrie Irving has dealt with a tweaked hamstring that caused him to miss a few games as well. The Cavs’ schedule also has not done them any favors. Sharpshooter JR Smith is still injured and will be for some time too. On top of West Coast travels wearing them down their flight to Portland was delayed due to snow.
Coach Tyronn Lue does not want to make excuses for his cold-shooting Cavs, but he too is not denying the lack of practice has had some effect. “Schedule, injuries, sickness, a lot of stuff,” Lue said to ESPN. “But I mean it’s no excuse. We know what we’re doing, what we are supposed to do.”
With losses to the Jazz and Blazers, the Cavaliers have now endured their second losing streak of the season. While that may not qualify as a ‘slump’ to many, it is abnormal for Cleveland. After Friday’s game in Sacramento, the Cavs will have their first practice in 18 days on Sunday in preparation for the heavyweight bout Monday night with the Warriors at Oracle Arena.
