Cleveland Cavaliers vs Charlotte Hornets Picks and Predictions December 14th 2025

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The Cleveland Cavaliers host the Charlotte Hornets in an Eastern Conference matchup where Cleveland looks to build momentum behind Donovan Mitchell’s scoring surge, while Charlotte seeks stability despite key absences.

Line Movement and Odds

The Cavaliers opened at -10 and have held firm at -10.5, reflecting confidence in their home-court edge. The total sits at 233.5, anticipating pace and offensive output from both sides.

  • Cavaliers Spread: -10.5 (-111)
  • Hornets Spread: +10.5 (-110)
  • Cavaliers MoneyLine: -477
  • Hornets MoneyLine: +374
  • Total: 233.5 (-110)

For updated market moves, check the latest NBA odds.

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Matchup Breakdown

Cavaliers Outlook

Donovan Mitchell’s 48-point explosion against Washington highlighted Cleveland’s reliance on his scoring. He leads the league in three-pointers and averages 31.3 points per game. Despite injuries to Evan Mobley and Darius Garland, the Cavaliers remain competitive, ranking top two in field goal attempts and first in three-point attempts. Their offensive volume gives them a clear edge at home.

Hornets Outlook

Charlotte continues to battle through injuries but showed offensive promise against Chicago. Rookie Kon Knueppel posted 33 points, while Miles Bridges added 32. The Hornets average 114.7 points per game and rank 10th in made threes. Defensively, they lead the league in steals and limit opponents’ free throw attempts, but depth issues remain a concern.

Key Matchup / Path to Victory

The game tilts on perimeter shooting and defensive resilience. Cleveland’s high-volume offense, led by Mitchell, forces Charlotte to contest heavily on the perimeter. For the Hornets, efficiency from Bridges and Knueppel plus defensive disruption through steals are critical to keeping the game close.

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Injuries / Availability

Evan Mobley and Darius Garland remain sidelined for Cleveland. Check the Cavaliers injury report for updates.

Charlotte continues without LaMelo Ball (ankle), Collin Sexton (quadriceps), and Tre Mann (knee). See the Hornets injury report for the latest status.

Environment

The Cavaliers return home to Rocket Arena, where Mitchell’s scoring has often lifted them. Cleveland’s pace and perimeter volume align with their offensive strengths. Charlotte enters off a close loss and has struggled to maintain defensive intensity on the road. Expect a high-possession contest with Cleveland’s efficiency dictating the outcome.

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Best Bets and Prediction

Projected Final Score: Cavaliers 124, Hornets 112

  • Cavaliers -10.5 (-111) → Best Bet. Mitchell’s scoring and Cleveland’s offensive volume support covering the spread.
  • Over 233.5 (-110) → Both teams trend high in pace, with Cleveland’s shooting and Charlotte’s scoring keeping the total live.

Cleveland’s offensive firepower and Mitchell’s form align with a comfortable home win. Charlotte’s scoring keeps the over in play, but defensive lapses make it difficult to stay within the number.

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