The Dallas Mavericks were set to face a star-studded Cleveland Cavaliers team until a nationwide FAA ground stop kept Cleveland in Miami overnight.
Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell told cleveland.com’s Chris Fedor that he would prefer the NBA call off the game because of the ground stop, which forced Cleveland to fly back Saturday morning.
Hours before tipoff, the Cavaliers downgraded Mitchell, James Harden, Jarrett Allen and Peyton Watson from questionable to out. The four joined Evan Mobley, who was already ruled out with a sprained left great toe. Those five had made 60 of Cleveland’s 65 starts this season.
Even so, the shorthanded Cavaliers stunned the Mavericks at Rocket Arena.
Mavericks co-stars Cooper Flagg and Kyrie Irving combined for 52 points, but it wasn’t enough in the 127-117 loss Saturday night.
Diehard Exclusive
Step up. Become a DLLS Diehard.
Now you can join for $3.99/month, billed monthly. Get premium written coverage, the Diehard Lounge and member-only deals in the Diehard Vault.
Save up to 26% with Annual
Diehard Level 1
Most Popular
Diehard Pro Level
Contact us to switch to this plan.
Cancel anytime. No questions asked.
You're already a Diehard! Manage your subscription from your dashboard.
Already a Diehard?
Sign In
