Sports Betting Picks

Cleveland Cavaliers vs Brooklyn Nets Preview – December 16

The Cleveland Cavaliers aim to continue their impressive start to the season as they visit the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on Monday night. Cleveland (22-4) sits atop the Eastern Conference, while Brooklyn (10-15) looks to overcome recent struggles and climb back into playoff contention.

In their first meeting this season, Cleveland edged Brooklyn 105-100 on November 9, thanks to a dominant fourth quarter. The Cavaliers will try to replicate that success, while the Nets aim to fix defensive lapses that have plagued them recently.

Cleveland Cavaliers

Cleveland’s season has been marked by consistent offensive production and strong team chemistry under head coach Kenny Atkinson. The Cavaliers have won five of their last six games, averaging over 110 points per game during that stretch. Their success is fueled by All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell, who leads the team in scoring and continues to provide critical leadership on the court.

Mitchell is supported by a talented roster, including Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen. Cleveland’s depth has been critical, especially with Evan Mobley nursing an ankle injury. The Cavaliers rely on efficient shooting, ranking first in field goal percentage (50.3%) and three-point percentage (39.9%). Their ability to get to the free-throw line has also been a game-changer, as they attempt nearly 21 free throws per game.

Defensively, Cleveland’s frontcourt presence led by Allen has been a significant factor. The team excels at controlling the boards and limiting second-chance opportunities for opponents. Against a struggling Brooklyn offense, Cleveland’s defense could play a decisive role.

Brooklyn Nets

The Nets have had a turbulent season, compounded by injuries and inconsistent play. Brooklyn’s defense has been a glaring weakness, allowing opponents to shoot over 48% from the field. This has contributed to a 1-5 record in their last six games, with the team giving up an average of 115.7 points per game during that span.

Brooklyn is still without Cam Thomas, their leading scorer, who remains sidelined with a hamstring injury. Recent roster moves, including the trade of Dennis Schroder, have left the team searching for offensive consistency. Nic Claxton and Dorian Finney-Smith have provided some bright spots, but the team needs more production from its role players to compete against top-tier opponents like Cleveland.

Coach Jordi Fernandez has emphasized the need for defensive improvement, but execution has been lacking. The Nets will need to find ways to contain Cleveland’s dynamic backcourt while addressing their struggles in transition defense and three-point coverage.

Pick and Prediction

The Cavaliers enter this matchup as heavy favorites and for good reason. Cleveland’s balanced attack, superior shooting efficiency, and defensive discipline give them a clear edge over a Brooklyn team that has struggled to find its identity. Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland should have strong performances against a shaky Nets defense.

While the Nets have the home-court advantage, their inconsistent play and lack of firepower make it difficult to envision an upset. Cleveland’s depth and execution on both ends of the floor should secure a comfortable victory.

  • Prediction: Cleveland 118, Brooklyn 104

 

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