THE Cleveland Cavaliers will assume the Chicago Bulls Friday night to extend their winning streak to 13 games. This is also Clevealnd’s first game in the 2024 Emirates NBA Cup, and the Cavs are looking to get ahead of the rest of their group.

There’s a lot on the line for another Friday night in November. However, the Wine and Gold will be undermanned and one of their star players will miss this key match.

Evan Mobley was ruled out sick for Cleveland’s game against the Bulls.

It’s that time of year, and it’s not something new that Mobley is facing. He was questionable before Wednesday’s game due to illness, but ended up playing. Mobley scored 14 points, grabbed seven rebounds and dished out one assist in this game.

Mobley is currently averaging 17.8 points, 8.6 rebounds and 2.5 assists this season while playing exceptional defense. It won’t be easy for the Cavs to replace that production.

Sam Merrill is also out against the Bulls with left ankle pain. This will be the second consecutive game he has missed due to the injury.

Merill has played a key role on Cleveland’s bench so far this season. He is currently averaging 6.8 points while shooting 40 percent from the floor and 36 percent from behind the arc.

The Bulls will also lose one of their key players in this game. Their starting point guard, Lonozo Ball, will miss the match due to a sprained right wrist.