The playoff matchup between the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Detroit Pistons has followed a predictable pattern so far, with each team protecting its home court much like what happened in Cleveland’s previous series against Toronto.
With the series tied 2-2, the Cavs now head to Detroit for a crucial Game 5.
Cleveland has yet to win a playoff game on the road this year (0-5), though Detroit hasn’t fared much better, managing just one road win in the first round (1-4). Success away from home often depends on role players stepping up, but the Pistons may be missing two key contributors.
Who Might Be Out for Game 5?
Duncan Robinson and Caris LeVert are both listed as questionable for Detroit.
Robinson has been the Pistons’ top three-point threat in the postseason, shooting 43.6% from deep. In the first round, he averaged just over 10 points per game on 36% shooting.
But in the semifinals against Cleveland, his efficiency has soared: he’s hitting 54.3% from the field and an astonishing 57.7% from three, averaging 14 points per game in the series. Losing him would be a major blow.
LeVert, a name familiar to Cavs fans from his time in Cleveland, had been largely quiet in the playoffs before Game 4. Coming into Monday night, he had just 27 total points across nine playoff games. But in Game 4, he exploded for a game-high 24 points on 10-of-16 shooting, posting a +15 plus/minus for Detroit.
His injury is listed as a right heel contusion the same issue that made him questionable for Game 4. He played through it on Monday, so this might not be as serious as it seems.
Robinson has started every playoff game for Detroit so far. His current issue is low back soreness, and his status will likely be clarified closer to tip-off.
Cleveland, on the other hand, has no players on the injury report for Game 5, meaning they’ll have their full roster available for the biggest game of their season.
Tip-off is set for 8:00 p.m. ET on ESPN.
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