The Cleveland Cavaliers visit the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 7:00 PM ET. Cleveland, holding the best record in the Eastern Conference at 33-5, looks to bounce back from a rare loss to Indiana. The Pacers, currently fifth in the conference at 22-18, are riding high on a six-game winning streak, including Sunday’s upset of the Cavaliers.
Indiana handed Cleveland its first loss in over a month, outscoring the Cavaliers 68-40 in the second half to win 108-93. This game is a critical test for both teams as Cleveland looks to reestablish dominance while Indiana hopes to continue climbing the standings.
Cleveland Cavaliers Preview – Seeking Redemption
Cleveland’s 12-game winning streak ended Sunday in an uncharacteristic second-half collapse. Despite leading by 13 at halftime, the Cavaliers could not hold off Indiana’s aggression. Donovan Mitchell, averaging 22.8 points per game, led the team with 19 points in the loss but struggled with efficiency. Darius Garland and Evan Mobley added 20 and 16 points, respectively.
On the season, Cleveland boasts the league’s top field goal percentage (50.2%) and a potent three-point attack, hitting 40.1% from deep. The Cavaliers rank second in scoring at 122.1 points per game. Their defense, however, faltered Sunday, and coach Kenny Atkinson emphasized the need to play a full 48 minutes moving forward.
With Jarrett Allen anchoring the interior and Garland facilitating (6.7 assists per game), Cleveland aims to regain focus and avenge Sunday’s defeat. A road win would solidify their position atop the Eastern Conference.
Indiana Pacers Preview – Riding Momentum
The Pacers extended their winning streak to six games by defeating Cleveland on Sunday. Pascal Siakam led the balanced scoring effort with 18 points, and Andrew Nembhard contributed 19 points. Indiana’s depth shone through, with six players scoring in double figures. The team’s aggressive second-half performance was a game-changer.
Indiana’s offense ranks in the upper half of the league, powered by Tyrese Haliburton (18.1 points, 8.8 assists per game). However, Haliburton left Sunday’s game with a hamstring injury and is doubtful for Tuesday’s rematch. His absence puts added pressure on Siakam and the supporting cast.
The Pacers’ defense has been solid during their win streak, allowing just 108 points per game. Maintaining that intensity will be crucial against Cleveland’s high-powered offense. Indiana will also look to leverage home-court advantage, where they are 11-6 this season.
Betting Prediction
Cleveland is an 8.5-point favorite, with the total set at 231.5. The Cavaliers are unlikely to lose two straight to Indiana, especially after Sunday’s wake-up call. Expect Cleveland’s offense to rebound and control the pace of the game.
The predicted final score is Cleveland 118, Indiana 108. Cleveland should cover the spread, and the total is likely to go under with Haliburton potentially sidelined.
Pick: Cleveland -8.5, Under 231.5
