NBA Preview: Brooklyn Nets vs. Cleveland Cavaliers – Monday, Dec. 16, 2024

The Cleveland Cavaliers (22-4) will look to extend their winning streak when they take on the struggling Brooklyn Nets (10-15) on Monday, December 16 at 7:30 PM ET at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. The Cavaliers are favored with a point spread at -10.5 (-110).

Cleveland Cavaliers Betting Preview

The Cavaliers are returning to action after a 115-105 victory over the Washington Wizards in their latest battle. This put them back on track after losing 122-113 against the Miami Heat in the game prior.

With three players in scoring numbers over 20 points, it is difficult to slow this team down. They were led by Darius Garland, who had 24 points, and Donovan Mitchell (23.6 PPG, currently leads team), had 20.

They actually shot worse than the Wizards, as they made 39.6 percent of their shots from the field and 30.0 percent from three-point range. They also had 11 turnovers, but forced the Wizards to have 18.

The Cavs rank second in the league for averaging 121.2 points a game. On defense they rank 11th for allowing 111.2 points from opposing teams a game. This margin of safety is appealing and why they are one of the best teams in the league.

Brooklyn Nets Betting Preview

The Nets have lost their last two games and need to break the losing cycle. Their latest defeat was at the hands of the Memphis Grizzlies, 135-119.

They had a strong first and third quarter, with 36 and 39 points respectively. However, they only put up 44 points combined with the second and fourth quarters. Dorian Finley-Smith led the team in scoring with 19 points.

Their shooting from the floor was not bad at 45.7 percent and 37.7 percent from deep. But, their defense was worse at allowing the Grizzlies to make 52.5 percent from the field and 47.2 percent from three. They also had 18 turnovers and only forced 13 on the Grizzlies.

The Nets rank 20th on both sides of the ball, as they average 110.4 points and give up 114.7 points a game to their opponents. This correlation shows exactly why they have a losing record, as you cannot expect to win ball games with poor defense and random positive shooting performances.

Odds, Series Trends, and Free Pick

MyBookie showcases the best NBA betting odds for the Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Brooklyn Nets battle. Looking at market predictions, it shows the Cavs having a 62.6 percent likelihood of winning on the road.

The Nets have allowed 114.2 points a game during their latest five matchups, as they have lost four out of their last five overall. Several of those were blowout losses too. Look for the Cavs to cover the spread.

Final Pick: Cleveland Cavaliers -10.5 (-110)