Game Start Time: 11:30am (AEDT)
In this NBA Matchup of the day preview, we go through the Clippers Vs. the Cavs and breakdown the most important factors and what to bet on.
Game Breakdown:
The second game of the season series between the Cavs and the Clippers is set to be an exciting one for the fans this morning. The Clippers won the last meeting by just 2 points off the back of a strong 26-point game from Paul George.
However, this meeting is expected to see the presence of Kawhi Leonard who has really picked up his form over the past few weeks averaging an incredible 29 ppg in his last 10 games. On the other hand, the young stars of the east are led by all-star starter Donovan Mitchell (who is questionable to play), and one of the best playmakers at the moment in Darius Garland. The two star guards have led the Cavs to a 30-21 record putting them as a smokey to shock the east come playoffs time.
LA Clippers Breakdown
The clippers are a team whose record does not reflect how good they really are as 28-24 isn’t an ideal look for the potential title contenders. They come into this game off the back of yesterday’s 7-point win over Atlanta which was led by a typical Kawhi Leonard star performance as he had 32 points while shooting 60% from the field and 50% from 3.
The big question for the game against the Cavs is will Kawhi play?
The Clippers are very focused to maintain the health of their superstar player which will make it necessary for Paul George and Reggie Jackson to step up on the offensive side of the floor and Zubac to step up on the defensive side. Paul George throughout his last 10 games has taken an excellent approach to games, allowing Kawhi to dominate while he facilitates the offence. Shown by his 22ppg, 6rpg, and 6asp in his last 10, George has proven he can take a step back and be the second option. Kawhi is expected to play tomorrow so it will be interesting to see if the Clippers can back up yesterday’s win and if their stars can have impactful nights and maintain their form.
Cleveland Cavaliers Breakdown
Donovan Mitchell playing today will be key for the Cavs to take advantage of the clippers playing back-to-back days. The star shooting guard has been outstanding this season as he has led the Cavs with his 28ppg to a contender within the eastern conference. His partner in crime Darius Garland has also found some form in the past 10 games averaging 24ppg and 9asp.
In addition to this fantastic backcourt, Even Mobley and Jarret Allen have been fantastic on both sides of the floor this season. Mobley, who has been criticised for his efforts at points this season has looked electric in his the last month. Mobley and Allen should dominate the interior ends of both sides of the floor in today’s matchup and will lock down the paint with ease. I expect them both to have near double-doubles while having 12-15 points with a block at least. However, it is likely they will be targeted in the pick-and-roll game in order to lure them out of the paint so Kawhi and Paul George can be aggressive on offence.
The Cavs are right in this matchup and I would love to see them perform well with some help from their 6th man Caris Levert who has also had a good season.
The Verdict
Who wins? – Could really go either way, Donovan Mitchell’s health, in my opinion, will be the difference maker so in saying that ill take the Clippers 1-10 ($5.90 Odds) but will not be surprised if Cavs sneak away with the win.
Players to watch: Darius Garland (CAVS), Kawhi Leonard (LA)
Same Game Multi:
– Garland 8 assists
– Kawhi 20+ points
– George 4 rebounds & 4 assists
– Allen 1+ block
Odds TBC via Ladbrokes