Sixers-Cavs by the numbers: Pressure, threes and a 29-point rematch

Sixers-Cavs by the numbers: Pressure, threes and a 29-point rematch originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

The Sixers and Cavaliers have already played one game that looked like two.

Cleveland led by 29 points during the Sixers’ home opener on Oct. 22 and carried a 69-45 advantage into halftime. Philadelphia responded by winning the second half, 69-37, and completing a 114-106 comeback.

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It was the Sixers’ largest comeback since the NBA began maintaining detailed play-by-play data in 1997-98. Only nine other teams during that span had overcome a deficit of at least 29 points.

Fifteen days later, the teams will meet again Friday night at Rocket Arena. This time, the matchup counts toward the NBA Cup standings.

The 8-1 Sixers have won five consecutive games and opened group play with a 98-93 victory over the Knicks. The 4-4 Cavs have dropped two straight and will make their Cup debut.

Here are five numbers that help frame the rematch.

29: The deficit Cleveland has not forgotten

Philadelphia’s comeback required more than a hot shooting stretch.

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The Sixers committed 15 turnovers in the first half, allowing Cleveland to build a 22-6 advantage in points off turnovers. Their pressure then changed the game after halftime.

The Cavs committed 21 turnovers by the end of the night. What had been a 16-point Cleveland advantage in points off turnovers finished even at 22 apiece.

“They upped their pressure and physicality,” Cavs head coach Kenny Atkinson said after the game. “It was pretty clear. We did not handle it well.”

The Sixers scored 64 of their 69 second-half points through their starting lineup. Tyrese Maxey finished with 28 points, and Philadelphia turned a game that appeared finished into a franchise-record comeback.

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12.9: Philadelphia’s turnover rate

The first half of the opening meeting now looks like an exception.

The Sixers have committed 12.9 turnovers per 100 possessions this season, the NBA’s second-lowest rate. They are also third in turnover differential, averaging 3.4 fewer giveaways than their opponents.

That is notable for a team that entered the season intending to play…

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Publish date : 2026-11-06 07:00:00

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