The Cleveland Cavaliers finally had their lengthy winning streak end last time out against the Orlando Magic, and now they’re in further danger against an L.A. Clippers team which has caught fire in the last few weeks.
With issues abound on offense, my Cavaliers vs. Clippers predictions will explain why Los Angeles could out-score Cleveland in a big upset win.
Let’s dig into some NBA player props and hand out some NBA picks on Tuesday, March 18.
Cavaliers vs Clippers prediction
My best bet: Clippers moneyline (+125 at bet365)
My analysis
Believe it or not, it’s the Los Angeles Clippers who have out-paced the Cleveland Cavaliers this month. They sit four spots higher in Net Rating, ranking fourth in the league, and that’s been largely due to the fact that they’ve been significantly better on offense.
The Clippers rank 12th or higher in every shooting zone other than the long mid-range, but as a team which has focused its offense around scoring down near the rim it’s been rather insignificant that things have broken that way.
Things have been going swimmingly on defense for the most part, too, though L.A.’s ability to defend the rim has been a bit of a concern.
Cleveland has taken the 11th-fewest shots at the rim, however, and that’s been a concern as its shooting elsewhere has really been abysmal.
That should set the Clippers up for success here, especially if Evan Mobley – listed as questionable – is unable to go. He’s been the anchor of this team’s rim defense, and his strides offensively have also helped Cleveland transform into the contender it is currently.
It’s with that, that I believe this Clippers offense, which has come through some strong defenses in recent weeks, can find a victory and win the war between a strong offense and a stalwart group of stoppers. Cleveland isn’t the same scary team if it can’t score the ball, and there are few signs to signal a turnaround here.
Cavaliers vs Clippers same-game parlay
Bogdan Bogdanović doesn’t play a ton of minutes night to night, but one thing we do know is that when he’s out there, he’s going to shoot.
I believe the Clippers may take on a slightly more offensive look in this one given it’ll need to rely on their shooters to win this game rather than their defense, which should be aided by a team which has had issues scoring this month.
As the Cavaliers stand vulnerable against the mid-range, we’ll go with Bogdanovic to score here as the man on the Clippers who has led the team in shooting frequency in both mid-range zones relative to his position. Cleveland is 28th against the long mid-range shot and should be victimized by Bogdanovic as he sends Kris Dunn to the bench.
Then, we’ll attack the Clippers who have allowed the 11th-most assists per 100 possessions this month and have been weak at the rim. Darius Garland is averaging over nine assists per 100 in March and should dump the ball inside all night long for plenty of helpers. He’s notched this in 10 of his last 12 and should be locked into plenty of minutes.
Learn how to bet a same-game parlay with these helpful tips and strategies.
Cash your ML bets quicker with bet365's early win payout
Take advantage of the early win payout at bet365, where any pre-game NBA moneyline bet gets paid out as a winner if your team goes up by 20+ points!
Learn more about this feature, and all of bet365's offerings, with our comprehensive bet365 review.
21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Cavaliers vs Clippers odds
Cavaliers vs Clippers live odds
Cavaliers vs Clippers opening odds
- Spread: Cleveland -3.5 (-110) | Los Angeles +3.5 (-110)
- Moneyline: Cleveland -160 | Los Angeles +125
- Over/Under: Over 231 | Under 231
Odds courtesy of bet365
Cavaliers vs Clippers spread and Over/Under analysis
- This spread went as high as five points before tumbling back down in the afternoon to three.
- The Cavaliers have taken on 79% of the bets and 87% of the handle wagered on the spread.
- The total took a dip down to 229.5 before making a steady climb as high as 233.
- The Over has accounted for 59% of the tickets but 44% of the money.
Cavaliers vs Clippers trend
The LA Clippers have hit the 4Q Moneyline in 32 of their last 52 games (+14.87 Units / 23% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Cavaliers vs. Clippers.
How to watch Cavaliers vs Clippers
Location | Intuit Dome, Inglewood, CA |
Date | Tuesday, 3-18-2025 |
Tip-off | 10:30 p.m. ET |
TV | FanDuel Sports Network - Ohio, FanDuel Sports Network - SoCal |
Cavaliers vs Clippers latest injuries
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.