For the first time in eight games, the Philadelphia 76ers will face a team with a losing record. Philadelphia looks to snap their first losing streak of the season when they visit the Cleveland Cavaliers on Saturday, February 11. This will be the first road game in a week for the 76ers. They beat the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday, February 4. As a 76ers fan I am optimistic that the team will get the job done. But they have to be careful. The Cavaliers might not be on the same level as the last seven opponents that the 76ers have faced. However, they are a dangerous young team that is getting better with every passing game.

The Cavaliers are 10-15 overall but have some solid wins. Unfortunately for them, rookie sensation Kyrie Irving will miss another game. Irving has been a breakout star and is the biggest reason for Cleveland’s improvement. Without him, the Cavaliers are not as strong. But that doesn’t mean the 76ers should look past them. Cleveland did earn a win over the Los Angeles Clippers with Irving out of the lineup. For the 76ers, the best way to win the game is to play to their strengths and control the tempo.

Once again, Philadelphia is likely to be without Spencer Hawes. That won’t be an excuse though. Philadelphia should still be able to excel under the basket and get rebounds. Elton Brand and Nikola Vucevic should be able to handle the inside game of the Cavaliers. The bigger worry is shooting. Despite being one of the best shooting teams this season, Philadelphia has struggled in that area the last couple of games. They are still getting five or six guys in double figures but it is taking a lot of shots for it to happen. Lou Williams and Andre Iguodala have been off and that impacts the whole team. That is frustrating since we know that they are better than that. If Philadelphia can’t find their stroke again they won’t beat anybody.

This game starts a three game road trip in which the 76ers can succeed. The Charlotte Bobcats and the Orlando Magic are the next three opponents. Philadelphia wants to start the trip off on the right foot. If they shoot the ball a little better they should have no problem doing that. They are better than Cleveland in all areas of the game. But that doesn’t mean a lot if they can’t execute. This game presents a great opportunity to get back on track.

* – Mark Paul is a Philadelphia 76ers fan. Follow him on Twitter here.

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