Cleveland Cavaliers vs Boston Celtics Betting Preview
The Cleveland Cavaliers aim for a fourth straight win when they visit the Boston Celtics on Wednesday night at TD Garden. Tip-off is set for 7:00 PM ET on ESPN. Cleveland is off to a 3-1 start and sits fourth in the East under coach Kenny Atkinson, while Boston is coming off its first win of the season after a tough 0-3 start.
Donovan Mitchell continues to carry Cleveland’s offense. He’s averaged 32.8 points over the first four games, including 35 on 72% shooting in Monday’s 116-95 win over Detroit. Coach Atkinson called Mitchell “underrated” and praised his consistency and leadership.
For Boston, the new-look lineup is beginning to find rhythm. Anfernee Simons led the Celtics with 25 points in their 122-90 win at New Orleans. Jaylen Brown added 15 despite nursing a sore hamstring, and coach Joe Mazzulla’s group showed much-improved defensive energy.
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Line Movement and Odds
The Cavaliers opened as 4.5-point favorites, and early sharp money pushed the line briefly to -5 before settling back at Cleveland -4.5 (-108) at most books. Boston sits at +4.5 (-112). The moneyline shows Cleveland -179 and Boston +151.
The total opened at 230.5 and climbed to 232 with 62% of tickets on the Over, but sharper action has leaned to the Under. Track the latest numbers on our NBA odds page
Matchup Breakdown
Cleveland Outlook
The Cavaliers rank top-10 in both offensive efficiency and points allowed (112.8 ppg). They’ve shot 47.6% from the field and 38.9% from three, averaging 15 made triples per game. With Darius Garland and Max Strus still sidelined, Mitchell’s volume and playmaking remain vital. Jarrett Allen’s interior presence has anchored a defense allowing the seventh-fewest points in the league.
Boston Outlook
The Celtics’ defensive metrics have stabilized, holding opponents to 39.9% shooting, best in the NBA. Boston ranks second in defensive rating and is still adjusting offensively to Simons’ addition. Their bench production surged Monday, highlighted by Josh Minott’s 15 points and nine boards. Returning home, the Celtics aim to build on their 31-4 closing run versus New Orleans.
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Injuries and Conditions
Cleveland Cavaliers
- Darius Garland (toe): Out, recovering from surgery
- Max Strus (foot): Out, recovery ongoing
- Sam Merrill (hip): Doubtful
- Lonzo Ball (rest): Expected to play
Full updates on the Cleveland Cavaliers injury report
Boston Celtics
- Jaylen Brown (hamstring): Probable
- Anfernee Simons (rotation management): Active
- Jaden Springer (ankle): Questionable
See the Boston Celtics injury report
Latest Betting Trends
- Cavaliers are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 road games.
- Celtics are 5-10 ATS in their last 15 home games.
- The Over is 6-1 in Cleveland’s last seven overall.
- Boston has gone Under in 5 of its last 8 when playing with one day of rest.
Best Bets and Prediction
The Cavaliers’ ball movement and efficiency have carried them through early injuries. Boston’s defense is trending up, but the lack of offensive cohesion remains an issue.
Projection: Cavaliers 115, Celtics 110
Best Bet: Cavaliers -4.5
Lean: Under 232
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