Cleveland (36-7) at Philadelphia (15-27)
- When: Jan 24 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- TV: NBCS-PH
Game Preview
The Cleveland Cavaliers come into Friday’s matchup as a 10.5-point favorite over the struggling Philadelphia 76ers, with the total set at 228.5. The Cavs, one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference, will be looking to rebound after a heartbreaking one-point loss to Houston, while the 76ers aim to break out of their seven-game losing streak.
Why Bet on Cleveland?
Cleveland (36-7) had a 12-game winning streak snapped recently and has gone 3-3 over its last six contests. Wednesday’s 109-108 loss to the Rockets was a tough pill to swallow, as the Cavaliers rallied late with a 19-0 run but couldn’t close it out. Darius Garland, who is typically automatic at the line, missed two critical free throws with just over two seconds left, and Donovan Mitchell’s last-second three-point attempt fell short.
Despite the loss, Cleveland’s depth and defense remain elite. Garland is coming off a 26-point performance, while Mitchell, though struggling with his shot, is a proven scorer who can explode at any time. The Cavs will likely have Evan Mobley (calf) back in action, which will bolster their interior defense and rebounding. Cleveland ranks among the league’s best in defensive efficiency and will look to take advantage of a Philadelphia team that has struggled on both ends of the court.
Why Bet on Philadelphia?
The 76ers (25-21) are desperate for a win to snap their seven-game losing skid, but they face a tall task without Joel Embiid, who is sidelined with foot and knee issues. Philadelphia’s defense has been a glaring weakness during this stretch, allowing 115 or more points in six of their last seven games. Tuesday’s 144-109 loss to the Denver Nuggets exposed their vulnerabilities, as the Sixers allowed Denver to shoot over 61% from the field and were out-rebounded 51-25.
Tyrese Maxey has stepped up offensively, scoring 28 points against Denver, while Guerschon Yabusele contributed 22 points off the bench. However, Philadelphia’s lack of interior presence without Embiid makes it tough to match up against Cleveland’s size and strength in the paint.
The 76ers have the advantage of being at home for seven of their next eight games, which could help them stabilize, but this matchup against the Cavaliers doesn’t favor them.
Prediction and Best Bet
Cleveland’s defense, coupled with Philadelphia’s struggles on both ends of the floor, makes the Cavaliers a strong pick to cover the -10.5 spread. The Sixers’ lack of rim protection without Embiid will be a significant issue, especially against a Cleveland team that excels in half-court sets and thrives in the paint.
While the 76ers may find some offensive rhythm behind Maxey, it likely won’t be enough to keep pace with Cleveland’s balanced attack led by Mitchell and Garland. Expect the Cavaliers to pull away late, with their superior depth and defensive prowess proving too much for the shorthanded Sixers.
Final Prediction: Cleveland covers the -10.5 spread with a 119-105 victory, and the game finishes slightly under the total of 228.5. Bet on the Cavs to dominate defensively and assert themselves as one of the East’s top contenders.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
