The Cleveland Cavaliers visit the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at 7:30 PM ET. Both teams hold the top spot in their respective conferences, with Cleveland at 34-5 and Oklahoma City at 33-6. The Cavaliers won their last meeting on January 8, 2025, in a high-scoring 129-122 battle in Cleveland.
This game pits the league’s top-ranked offense (Cleveland) against the best-ranked defense (Oklahoma City). The Cavaliers enter the matchup on a strong run, winning 17 of their last 19 games, while the Thunder have won 18 of their last 19 regular-season matchups. The stage is set for a marquee showdown between two elite teams.
Cleveland Cavaliers Preview – Scorching Hot Streak
The Cavaliers lead the league in offensive rating (121.3) and are tied for eighth in defensive rating (110.8). Their trio of Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, and Evan Mobley has been pivotal in their success. Mitchell, fresh off a 35-point performance against Indiana, is averaging 27.4 points per game this season. Garland adds 22.1 points and 8.5 assists per game, while Mobley contributes 17.2 points and 10.3 rebounds.
In their win over Oklahoma City last week, Cleveland relied on depth and balanced scoring. Jarrett Allen’s presence in the paint and Max Strus’ perimeter shooting provide additional threats for opponents. Cleveland’s ability to adapt and spread the floor will be critical in facing the Thunder’s league-best defense.
While Ty Jerome remains questionable due to illness, the Cavaliers have the depth to compensate. Maintaining composure on the road, where they are 14-3, will be key to extending their dominance.
Oklahoma City Thunder Preview – Defensive Dominance
Oklahoma City boasts the best defensive rating in the NBA at 102.9, holding opponents to just 42.5% shooting. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads the Thunder with 30.8 points, 7.1 assists, and 5.3 rebounds per game. He scored 32 points in their last game against Philadelphia, showcasing his ability to take over games.
Despite missing 7-footers Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein due to injuries, the Thunder continue to thrive with strong performances from Jalen Williams and Lu Dort. Williams, averaging 19.2 points, is coming off a 24-point effort. Dort’s defensive versatility adds a critical layer to their game plan.
OKC’s interior presence will be tested without Hartenstein, who had 15 double-doubles in 24 games. Still, their balanced attack and disciplined defense make them a formidable team, especially at home, where they are 16-2.
Betting Prediction
The Thunder are slight favorites at -1.5, with a total set at 233.5. This game could come down to execution in the final minutes. Cleveland’s offense matches up well against Oklahoma City’s defense, and their recent win against the Thunder provides confidence. However, OKC’s home-court advantage and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s leadership could tip the scales.
Projected final score: Oklahoma City 117, Cleveland 115. The Thunder cover the -1.5 spread, and the game goes under the total of 233.5.
Pick: Oklahoma City -1.5, Under 233.5
