INDEPENDENCE — David Nwaba, who has started the past three games in a 2-1 streak for the Cavaliers, will sit out Monday night at home against the Minnesota Timberwolves with a sore right knee.
Nwaba, a 6-foot-4, 219-pound guard, has become the Cavs’ defensive ace in a loss to the Lakers, followed by back-to-back victories over the 76ers and Rockets. Nwaba has averaged 8.7 points and 4.0 rebounds in those three, shooting .333 from the field and .167 from 3-point range. But his plus/minus is a combined plus 16 as he’s guarded LeBron James, Jimmy Butler and James Harden.
In 14 games, Nwaba is averaging 6.1 points and 2.7 rebounds while hitting .424 from the field and .227 from long range.
The Cavs will also be without forward Sam Dekker (sprained left ankle) and point guard George Hill (sprained right shoulder), along with five-time All-Star Kevin Love (left foot surgery).
In Nwaba’s absence, Cavs coach Larry Drew could go back to Larry Nance Jr. in the lineup alongside center Tristan Thompson. Nance started four consecutive games earlier this month.
Marla Ridenour can be reached at mridenour@thebeaconjournal.com. Read the Cavs blog at www.ohio.com/cavs. Follow her on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MRidenourABJ.