A high-profile interconference matchup takes center stage Sunday afternoon as the Cleveland Cavaliers travel to Paycom Center to face the Oklahoma City Thunder. On paper, this looks like a battle between two of the NBA’s elite teams, with Oklahoma City sitting at 43–14, the best record in the Western Conference, and Cleveland at 36–21 and firmly in the Eastern Conference playoff picture. However, the biggest storyline entering this game is the absence of MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who leads the Thunder with 31.8 points per game. Without their offensive centerpiece, Oklahoma City faces a major challenge against a Cavaliers team built to contend for a championship. Cleveland has the scoring, defense, and experience to take advantage, and this game presents a major opportunity to prove themselves against one of the league’s top teams.
Betting Lines
• Spread: Cavaliers -4.5
• Total: 226.5
• Moneyline: Cavaliers -162 | Thunder +136
Oddsmakers clearly adjusted this line due to Gilgeous-Alexander’s absence, as Oklahoma City is rarely an underdog at home. The total suggests a moderately high-scoring game, but Cleveland’s defense could play a major factor in keeping scoring under control.
Resume Check
Cleveland Cavaliers (36–21)
Cleveland enters this matchup averaging 119.8 points per game, one of the highest marks in the NBA, and they have built their identity around their star guard Donovan Mitchell. Mitchell is averaging 28.8 points and 5.9 assists per game and continues to be one of the most dangerous offensive players in basketball. His ability to score at all three levels makes him extremely difficult to defend.
The Cavaliers also feature one of the best defensive frontcourts in the NBA with Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. Mobley is averaging 17.7 points, 8.8 rebounds, and nearly two blocks per game, while Allen adds 14.9 points and 8.4 rebounds. Their ability to protect the rim and control the glass gives Cleveland a major advantage defensively.
With additional scoring and playmaking from James Harden, Cleveland has the depth and balance of a true contender.
Oklahoma City Thunder (43–14)
Despite their elite record, the Thunder face a completely different challenge without Gilgeous-Alexander. He is their offensive engine, and his absence forces other players into much larger roles.
Jalen Williams becomes Oklahoma City’s top perimeter scorer, averaging 17.5 points per game, while Chet Holmgren provides interior scoring and defense with 17.4 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game. The Thunder also rely heavily on their defense, forcing turnovers and creating transition opportunities.
However, without their primary shot creator, their offensive consistency becomes a major question.
Players to Watch
Cleveland Cavaliers
Donovan Mitchell
Mitchell is the key to Cleveland’s offense. His ability to create shots and score in isolation makes him the most dangerous player on the floor in this matchup.
Evan Mobley
Mobley’s defense and versatility give Cleveland a major advantage inside, especially against a young Thunder frontcourt.
Oklahoma City Thunder
Chet Holmgren
Holmgren will be relied on heavily for scoring and rim protection, and his performance could determine whether Oklahoma City can stay competitive.
Jalen Williams
Williams must step up offensively and provide consistent scoring without Gilgeous-Alexander.
How the Cavaliers Win
Cleveland wins this game by controlling the pace and attacking Oklahoma City’s weakened offense. Without Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder lack their primary playmaker, which allows Cleveland to focus on shutting down secondary scoring options.
Offensively, Donovan Mitchell should have the advantage against Oklahoma City’s perimeter defense. If Mitchell can score efficiently and create opportunities for teammates, Cleveland will generate consistent offense.
The Cavaliers also have a major advantage inside. Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen can dominate the paint, control rebounds, and protect the rim. Limiting Oklahoma City’s second-chance opportunities will be critical.
If Cleveland plays disciplined defense and executes offensively, they should be in control.
How the Thunder Win
The Thunder win this game by relying on their defense and playing with energy at home. Oklahoma City must force turnovers, create transition scoring opportunities, and avoid getting stuck in half-court situations where they lack offensive creation.
Chet Holmgren must have a major offensive performance, and Jalen Williams must take on a larger scoring role. Oklahoma City’s supporting cast must also contribute offensively.
If they can slow Cleveland’s offense and play efficiently, they can remain competitive.
Prediction
Despite Oklahoma City’s excellent season, the absence of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is simply too significant to overcome against a team as talented as Cleveland. Donovan Mitchell will control the game offensively, attacking the Thunder’s defense and creating scoring opportunities throughout the night.
Cleveland’s frontcourt will dominate defensively, limiting Oklahoma City’s ability to score consistently in the paint. While the Thunder will compete and keep the game close early, Cleveland’s depth, experience, and offensive firepower will allow them to pull away in the second half.
Cavaliers 121, Thunder 113
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