The Toronto Raptors travel to Cleveland to face the league-leading Cavaliers on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Tip-off is set for 7:00 PM ET. Cleveland looks to extend their 12-game winning streak, while Toronto aims to end their struggles, having lost 14 of their last 15 games.
In their last meeting on November 24, Cleveland defeated Toronto 122-108. The Cavaliers are enjoying a historic season with a 32-4 record, while the Raptors, sitting at 8-29, continue to rebuild. Cleveland’s dominance at home (19-1) and Toronto’s road woes (1-16) further highlight the gap between these teams.
Toronto Raptors Preview – Searching for a Spark
The Raptors are enduring a difficult season, currently 14th in the Eastern Conference. They’ve lost three straight, including a 112-98 defeat to the New York Knicks on Wednesday. Immanuel Quickley has been a bright spot since his return, scoring 22 points in the loss.
Toronto’s offense has struggled, ranking near the bottom of the league in field goal percentage and three-pointers made. Scottie Barnes continues to show promise, averaging 18 points and 5 rebounds per game, but the team lacks consistent scoring options. Defensive lapses and turnovers have further hindered their ability to compete.
On the road, the Raptors have found little success, winning just one game all season. They’ll need strong performances from Quickley, Barnes, and Jakob Poeltl to have a chance against Cleveland’s stout defense.
Cleveland Cavaliers Preview – Maintaining Dominance
The Cavaliers are on fire, leading the NBA with a 32-4 record and a 12-game winning streak. They handed Oklahoma City a 129-122 loss on Wednesday, ending the Thunder’s 15-game winning streak. Jarrett Allen led the way with 25 points and 11 rebounds, while Evan Mobley added 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists.
Mobley has emerged as a star, averaging 18.9 points and 8.7 rebounds this season. He, along with Allen and Donovan Mitchell, form one of the league’s most well-rounded cores. Mitchell leads the team in scoring at 22.9 points per game, with Darius Garland contributing 20.4 points and 6.7 assists.
Cleveland’s defense, ranked among the league’s best, will be key in stifling Toronto’s inconsistent offense. At home, the Cavaliers have been nearly unbeatable, boasting a 19-1 record.
Betting Prediction
The Cavaliers are heavy favorites with a -13.5 spread, and the total is set at 235.5. Cleveland’s dominance, especially at home, makes them a tough matchup for Toronto. The Raptors’ lack of consistent scoring and poor road record further tilt the scales in Cleveland’s favor.
Expect Cleveland to control the game on both ends of the court. Toronto may struggle to keep pace, making the Cavaliers likely to cover the spread. With Cleveland’s strong defense, the under on the total is also worth consideration.
Pick: Cavaliers -13.5, Under 235.5
