Cavs matchup interesting without James, Irving

Now the 76ers' game against the Cleveland Cavaliers is interesting.

In addition to playing without LeBron James, the Cavs will face the Sixers Monday night at the Wells Fargo Center minus Kyrie Irving.

The all-star point guard exited Sunday's home blowout loss to the Dallas Mavericks in the third quarter because of lower-back tightness.  He did not return and remained in Cleveland to get treatment.  Irving hurt his back during Friday's victory at the Charlotte Hornets. He missed two games last week with a sore left knee.

James has missed four consecutive games with knee and back strains. The four-time MVP could return as early as Friday. The Cavs (19-15) have lost four of the last five games.

Cleveland's recent losses and playing without the two all-stars is the reason why Monday night's matchup  is interesting,

Could the stage be set for the Sixers (4-28) to get their first home victory of the season?

With an 0-14 home record, they're desperate to get a win in front of their fans.  Monday will be a good opportunity to do it.  We will just have to wait to see. But it's still going to be tough.

Follow and contact Inquirer 76ers beat writer Keith Pompey on Twitter @PompeyOnSixers and on Instagram at PompeyOnSixers