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Cleveland Cavaliers vs Boston Celtics Betting Preview
The Cleveland Cavaliers host the Boston Celtics at Rocket Arena in Sunday NBA action. Boston seeks consistency after a narrow loss to Minnesota despite Jaylen Brown’s historic performance, while Cleveland looks to rebound from a high-scoring defeat in Atlanta. Bettors must weigh the Celtics’ defensive metrics against the Cavaliers’ offensive firepower at home.
Line Movement and Odds
- Cavaliers Spread: -7.5 (-114)
- Celtics Spread: +7.5 (-107)
- Total: 232.5 (Over -110, Under -110)
Cleveland opened as home favorites given their 8-3 record at Rocket Arena. See full NBA odds for market movement.
Matchup Breakdown
Boston Celtics Outlook
Boston fell 119-115 to Minnesota despite Jaylen Brown’s 41 points, seven assists, six rebounds, and five steals. Neemias Queta added a career-best 19 points and 18 rebounds, highlighting Boston’s rebounding edge. The Celtics rank third in points allowed (110.7) and first in field goal attempts allowed, showing defensive control. Their ability to generate offensive rebounds and stay competitive against physical teams provides a path to cover.
Cleveland Cavaliers Outlook
Cleveland dropped a 130-123 game to Atlanta despite Donovan Mitchell’s 42 points and Evan Mobley’s 20-point, 14-rebound effort. The Cavaliers rank second in threes made (15.6 per game) and fifth in possessions (101.4), fueling their 119.0 points per game. At home, they allow just 12.8 made threes per game, ranking ninth defensively. With Jarrett Allen out (finger) and Lonzo Ball resting, Cleveland must rely on Mitchell, Mobley, and Garland to sustain tempo.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
Celtics’ defense vs Cavaliers’ pace. Boston must slow possessions and lean on Brown’s scoring, while Cleveland needs Mitchell’s shot-making and Mobley’s interior presence to maintain tempo. Transition defense and rebounding will dictate outcomes.
Injuries / Availability
Cleveland lists Jarrett Allen (finger) out and Lonzo Ball (knee) resting. For full player status, check the Cavaliers injury report.
Boston reports Neemias Queta back from an ankle sprain, with no new major injuries. See the Celtics injury report for latest updates.
Environment
Rocket Arena provides Cleveland a home edge. Boston plays on short rest after a road loss, testing stamina. Expect pace control and defensive adjustments to drive totals.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Cavaliers 116, Celtics 110
- Celtics +7.5 (-107) → Best Bet. Boston’s defense and rebounding suggest they can keep it close despite Cleveland’s pace.
- Under 232.5 (-110) → Total. Our model projects 226 points, leaning under given Boston’s slower tempo and defensive metrics.
Cleveland’s offense should secure the win, but Boston’s defense makes this competitive. Expect the Cavaliers to edge out at home with the total trending under.
Handicappers and Service Plays
Gain sharper perspectives on this matchup by checking our Best Handicappers, following the Leaderboard, and reviewing premium plays in Buy Picks.


