by
- What: NBA Regular Season Game
- When: January 22, 2025
- Who: Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Houston Rockets
- Time: 7:00 p.m. EST
- Where: Toyota Center (Houston, TX)
As the Cleveland Cavaliers prepare to face off against the Houston Rockets, the stakes are high, and the betting lines are tighter than ever.
Despite their impressive season, the Cavaliers are dealing with injuries that could significantly impact their performance.
Evan Mobley’s potential absence looms large, and while the Rockets are coming off a tough loss to the Detroit Pistons, they can exploit Cleveland’s vulnerabilities.
Let’s break it down. The Cavaliers currently lead the Eastern Conference with a record that speaks volumes about their offensive prowess.
They rank second in the league in points per game and field goal percentage and boast the highest three-point shooting percentage.
However, their recent form has been shaky. They’ve lost two of their last five games, and the absence of Mobley, who averages 8.8 rebounds per game, could be a game-changer.
Before we examine our picks, be sure to check out the best NBA Basketball Betting Sites.
Game Preview (Cavaliers vs. Rockets)
On the flip side, the Rockets have shown flashes of brilliance, especially with Jalen Green earning the Western Conference Player of the Week award just days ago.
| Spread |  |  |  |
| Cleveland Cavs -2.5 Points | -115 | -115 | -115 |
| Houston Rockets +2.5 Points | -105 | -105 | -105 |
But let’s not forget that Houston’s recent performance against Detroit was a wake-up call. They struggled to maintain their offensive rhythm, committing turnovers at critical moments.
If they can clean up their act, they have the defensive edge that could stifle Cleveland’s high-octane offense.
The Rockets defense has been a strong point this season. If they can apply pressure on the Cavaliers, they might just force them into mistakes.
This Cam dunk was 🤯@MemorialHermann | #Rockets pic.twitter.com/3Etun8AKuP
— Houston Rockets (@HoustonRockets) January 20, 2025
In terms of betting, the spread of 2.5 points is tantalizing. The Rockets, playing at home, have the advantage of familiar territory and the support of their fans.
If they can channel the frustration from their recent loss and come out swinging, they have a solid chance to not only win but cover the spread.
While the Cavaliers have been a formidable opponent this season, the combination of their injuries and the Rockets’ defensive capabilities makes this matchup intriguing.
Expect Houston to rise to the occasion and take advantage of Cleveland’s struggles, making them a strong pick to cover the spread.
I’d absolutely take the points and back the Rockets at home in this one.
Click here for more regarding the best NBA Odds in the league on games and other award races.
Total Points
| Total Points | | | |
| Over 231 | -110 | -110 | -110 |
| Under 231 | -110 | -110 | -110 |
The Cavaliers rank sixth in the NBA with a pace of 100.67, while the Rockets sit at 18th with a pace of 99.29 so far this season.
Both teams are demonstrating strong offensive capabilities, with Cleveland averaging 120.8 points over their last four games and Houston putting up 119.8 points in their last five outings.
Cleveland’s ability to force turnovers and grab rebounds has been a key factor in their success, but without Mobley, they may find it challenging to maintain that edge.
— Cleveland Cavaliers (@cavs) January 21, 2025
The Rockets need to capitalize on this by tightening their defense and limiting Cleveland’s second-chance opportunities.
Moreover, the Cavaliers’ depth has been a significant factor in their success. However, the Rockets are not without their own weapons.
If Houston can harness their energy and play with the intensity they showed earlier in the season, they could very well overwhelm a Cavaliers team that might be feeling the effects of their injuries.
This total feels high. The Rockets defense should limit the Cavs offense. In addition to the uncertainty about Evan Mobley playing, I’ll take under 231 points at -110 at BetUS as the best bet in this one.
See below the Best Offshore Sportsbooks for US Customers 2025, where you can wager online and choose the best one for you.
Best Betting Sites 