Cavaliers (1) vs 76ers (4) – Round 2 Preview

The Conference Semi-Finals are nearly upon us, with the top seed in the East, the Cleveland Cavaliers, set to face off against one of the hottest teams in the competition, the Philadelphia 76ers. After surging to claim the 4th seed, the 76ers are looking primed for a serious playoff push. GM Nenjamin appears to have cracked the winning formula, surrounding his glitchy, athletic scoring guards with two-way threats and giants on the glass.

In Round 1, the 76ers looked elite in transition and far superior to a Hornets squad that failed to notch a single win. GM Nenjamin might just be daring to dream. But standing in their way is the best team in the East all season long: GM Shams and the Cleveland Cavaliers. Not only have the Cavs been the top seed, but they may also possess the most complete build in the league. Shams has skillfully constructed a roster that dominates on the boards and boasts elite wing play.

To make matters even more exciting, star point guard De’Aaron Fox is expected to return at the start of the Conference Finals. If the Cavaliers can edge past the 76ers, the championship is well within reach.

 

Team Previews

Cleveland Cavaliers

Cleveland will likely stick with their tried-and-true formula of a Drummond and Randle frontcourt. Their size and rebounding are two key pillars of a Fox-less lineup. While not flawless—as evidenced by their lone loss to a Wemby-less Pacers team—their size should match well with Philly, who play a similar style.

Wing play is another major strength. Deni Avdija (6’9”) and Scottie Barnes (6’7”) bring elite size, versatility, and the ability to score inside and out. Defensively, they can smother smaller guards and wings with ease.

Perhaps the Cavs’ biggest asset is their deep bench. Their 8–10-man rotation provides continuity in rebounding, defense, and scoring. Anfernee Simons has emerged as a premier sixth man, averaging over 25 points per game in Round 1 on nearly 50% shooting. His ability to lead the second unit has set a new benchmark for scoring guards this season. If GM Shams can continue to exploit this edge, the Cavs will be tough to beat.

Game 1 Expected Lineup
C: Drummond
PF: Randle
SF: Avdija
SG: Barnes
PG: Dunn
Bench: Simons, Okongwu, Horford, Alexander-Walker

Philadelphia 76ers

Like their second-round opponents, the 76ers are built to dominate the boards, making this series a heavyweight clash. The Drummond vs. Adams battle may well determine each game’s outcome. Both big men are elite rebounders—especially on the offensive glass—and neither demands heavy touches, meaning they’ll be fighting for every point under the rim. Drummond’s superior athleticism could stretch Adams, but if the Kiwi big man holds his own, Philly may find the edge elsewhere.

Nenjamin identified scoring guards as a priority this season and acquired Dejounte Murray—who was sadly lost to a season-ending injury. But instead of faltering, Philly adapted. The backcourt has been held down by Jalen Green, Jordan Clarkson, Markelle Fultz, and Ajay Mitchell. While none are true superstars, they’re all optimized in this year’s engine. With scoring badges and size, any one of them is capable of a breakout game. If they can match Simons’ output and survive Dunn’s defense, Philly has a real shot.

The final key for Philly? Paul George. Despite a drop in ratings, PG13 somehow got better in-game. After averaging over 30 points in the regular season, he cooled slightly in Round 1, still putting up 25+ with his usual defensive impact. He’s a former champion and will need to use every trick in the book to lead the 76ers past the elite defenders in Barnes and Avdija.

Game 1 Expected Lineup
C: Adams
PF: Draymond Green
SF: George
SG: Jalen Green
PG: Jordan Clarkson
Bench: Fultz, Dunn, Mitchell, Mogbo, Sharpe

 

Prediction – Who Takes It?

Honestly, every Conference Semi-Final this year is a toss-up, and this one is no different. At full strength, the Cavaliers would be favorites, but the gap narrows without De’Aaron Fox. Both teams have similar strengths—dominating the glass, versatile wings, and deep guard rotations—indicating both GMs truly understood this year’s build.

Without Fox and Murray, the series becomes even more fascinating. Depth will be crucial, and the "best player" each game could vary. Paul George is arguably the most talented, while Drummond’s impact is the most consistent. Scottie Barnes hasn’t had a breakout yet, but he’s been a steady force.

The Cavaliers may have the edge in depth, but the 76ers might have the best-performing player in 2K. Expect a long battle—this one likely goes the distance.

Prediction: Cavaliers 4 def. 76ers 3
Player of the Series: Andre Drummond – 18 points, 16 rebounds per game

I’ve never been less certain writing a series preview. One thing’s for sure: this is going to be an epic spectacle. Best of luck to both GMs—already among the most respected in the league.