Phoenix (21-20) at Cleveland (35-6)
- When: Jan 20 2025, 3:30 PM
- Where: Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, Cleveland, OH, USA
- TV: AZFamily
Game Preview
The Cleveland Cavaliers will host the Phoenix Suns on Monday afternoon in a marquee matchup featuring two teams in strong form. Cleveland enters as an 7.5-point favorite with the total set at 235.5, but the Suns’ dynamic duo of Kevin Durant and Devin Booker will aim to spoil Cleveland’s stellar home record.
Suns’ Scorching Form
Phoenix has turned its season around after a rough four-game skid, winning six of its last eight contests. Durant has been a consistent force, averaging 26.8 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 5.0 assists during this stretch. Meanwhile, Booker has been nothing short of elite, putting up 30.0 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game.
The Suns are also getting contributions from unexpected sources. New acquisition Nick Richards made an immediate impact in his debut against the Detroit Pistons on Saturday, tallying 21 points and 11 rebounds in a 125-121 win. With Bradley Beal (ankle) and Jusuf Nurkic (illness) questionable for Monday, Richards could see increased minutes once again.
Cavaliers’ Resilience at Home
Cleveland is coming off a hard-fought 124-117 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves, showcasing their depth despite missing Evan Mobley (calf). Donovan Mitchell was dominant, dropping 36 points, while Darius Garland added 29. Georges Niang chipped in 15 points off the bench, highlighting the Cavaliers’ ability to adapt and thrive.
The Cavs are nearly unbeatable at home with a 20-2 record and will look to maintain that dominance. Cleveland has also proven its ability to bounce back, recovering quickly from a blowout loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder last Thursday.
Betting Angles and Predictions
Spread Pick: While Phoenix is hot, Cleveland’s home-court advantage and depth make them the pick to cover the 7.5-point spread. The Suns are just 8-12 on the road this season, and their injury concerns with Beal and Nurkic could hinder their ability to compete for 48 minutes.
Total Pick: At 236.0, the over is enticing. Both teams have been lighting up the scoreboard, with Phoenix averaging 125 points over its last two games and Cleveland showing the ability to score even without Mobley. Expect a high-scoring affair.
Player Prop: Look for Durant to go over his points total. He’s been consistently delivering big numbers, and with Cleveland potentially missing Mobley, there could be more opportunities for him to dominate.
Final Score Prediction: Cavaliers 124, Suns 114. Cleveland covers the spread, and the game pushes the total over 235.5.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
