Even without Oklahoma City’s biggest stars, the Cavs have plenty to prove in a nationally televised showdown.

The Cavaliers face a challenge this afternoon as they begin what could be the hardest part of their schedule this season as they will face multiple teams above them in the NBA.

With key absences, the Cleveland Cavaliers could not hang around with the Thunder, suffering defeat on Sunday. Adam Kaufman joins to recap the action.

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Isaiah Joe scored 22 points and Cason Wallace added 20 points and 10 assists to help the short-handed Oklahoma City Thunder beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 121-113 on Sunday. Chet Holmgren had 17 points,

See our top photos from Sunday's NBA game between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Cleveland Cavaliers at Paycom Center.

Getty OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA – FEBRUARY 22: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers drives to the basket during the first half against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center on February 22, 2026 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. (Photo by William Purnell/Getty Images)

Cleveland heads into a matchup against Oklahoma City after winning five consecutive road games. Sunday's meeting will be the second of the season between the two teams.

The Oklahoma City Thunder are taking on the Cleveland Cavaliers here is what to watch for in that matchup.

So much for the excitement surrounding Friday’s national TV game between the Cavs and top-seeded Detroit Pistons.