NBA11 hours ago2 minute read

LeBron and Embiid Slump in Cleveland as Sixers Fall to Cavaliers

LeBron James and Joel Embiid struggled badly from the field in Philadelphia's 119-96 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

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A Rough Night in Cleveland

LeBron James had a night to forget in his latest trip back to Cleveland. Playing in Rocket Arena as a member of the Philadelphia 76ers, James finished with eight points on 3 for 12 shooting and committed seven turnovers. The Cavaliers rolled to a 119-96 victory in the NBA Cup game.

The performance halted a 22 year streak of double digit scoring games in Cleveland for James. The last time he failed to reach 10 points in the building was Dec. 29, 2004, just before his 20th birthday. Fans in Cleveland gave him a loud standing ovation before the game, cheering him louder than their own starters, but the warm welcome did not lead to good shooting on the court.

Historic Struggles for the Star Duo

James was not the only superstar who had trouble finding the net. Joel Embiid also suffered one of the coldest nights of his career, finishing with six points while going 0 for 9 from the floor. It was his worst shooting mark since going 0 for 11 against Toronto six years ago.

Together, James and Embiid became only the third pair of former MVP teammates in NBA history to score in single digits and shoot 25 percent or worse in the same game. James acknowledged his issues after the loss, stating, "I know I damn sure wasn't good at all." He also noted that he never felt in a good rhythm offensively and committed too many turnovers.

Looking Past the Loss

Despite the lopsided defeat, Philadelphia remains in a strong position early in the season with an 8-2 record. James pointed out that anyone would take that mark after 10 games, even if Friday was a clear misstep. The Cavaliers, meanwhile, enjoyed a comfortable win over the star who chose Philadelphia over them in free agency during the summer.

What it means for the next game

New York Knicks at Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA, Sun, 08 Nov): Cleveland Cavaliers win 37%, New York Knicks win 63%; projected score Cleveland Cavaliers 111, New York Knicks 115. Our safest pick: Cavaliers +12.5.

Philadelphia 76ers at Chicago Bulls (NBA, Sun, 08 Nov): Chicago Bulls win 42%, Philadelphia 76ers win 58%; projected score Chicago Bulls 115, Philadelphia 76ers 117. Our safest pick: 76ers +6.5.