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Cleveland vs Chicago: NBA Match Preview
On October 9, the Cleveland Cavaliers will face the Chicago Bulls in the opening game of the preseason tournament. In their last regular-season encounter in February, the Cavaliers lost to the Bulls in overtime. Can the Ohio team redeem themselves in front of their fans? What bets should you consider? Read on for our predictions.
Command Analysis
Cleveland Cavaliers
USACurrent Form
On February 29, the Cavaliers started strong, winning the first quarter, but ultimately lost to the Bulls in overtime with a score of 123 to 132. Evan Mobley stood out for the Cavaliers, recording a double-double with 25 points, 13 rebounds, and one assist. Darius Garland added 23 points while Donovan Mitchell contributed 19.
During the offseason, the core of the team remained intact, with veteran contracts signed for Mitchell and Jarrett Allen. Following the dismissal of head coach JB Bickerstaff, Kenneth Atkinson took over the reins.
Injuries and Suspensions
Emoni Bates will miss the game as he underwent knee surgery recently.
Betting Insights
Cleveland's three-point shooting percentage stands at 36.7 percent, ranking 15th in the league for the 2023/24 season.
Projected Lineup
Darius Garland - Donovan Mitchell - Jarrett Allen - Caris LeVert - Max Strus.
Chicago Bulls
USACurrent Form
The Bulls secured their victory on February 29 thanks to DeMar DeRozan, who delivered a double-double with 35 points, ten rebounds, and five assists. Nikola Vucevic contributed 24 points, 13 rebounds, and five assists. Andre Drummond added 17 points while Kobe White chipped in with 14. In the offseason, DeRozan left for the Kings, while Drummond returned to the 76ers.
Injuries and Suspensions
The Chicago Bulls travel with their strongest lineup.Josh Giddey from the Thunder and Lonzo Ball are questionable for participation in the game.
Betting Insights
Last season, the Bulls had a two-point shooting percentage of 47.0, ranking 17th in the league.
Projected Lineup
Zach Lavine - Nikola Vucevic - Patrick Williams - Kobe White - Jalen Smith.
Trends
Bet Vucevic's total rebounds over 11.5
Vucevic's average is 10.3 rebounds per game
1.87Bet LaVine's total points over 20.5
LaVine's average is 19.4 points per game
1.88Tip and bets
The Cavaliers and Bulls are set to take the court with their competitive rosters. According to bookmakers, the Cavaliers are the favorites in the upcoming matchup, which aligns with the current sentiment. Chicago has lost two key players and has yet to fill those gaps. Billy Donovan will need some time to establish strong team dynamics. The team from the Land of Lincoln has a perfect opportunity to kick off the season on a high note, backed by fans eager to support their favorites after a long summer.
Our prediction is a Cavaliers victory, potentially in overtime, with odds of 1.67.
Bet on Individual Total
Cleveland enters the upcoming match with a full roster. Despite having all their key players, the Ohio team struggles to score effectively, averaging 112.6 points during the 2023/24 regular season, placing them 20th in the league. This time, Coach Atkinson's squad is unlikely to challenge their opponent's defense significantly.
Our prediction is that Cleveland's individual total will be under 111.5 points, including overtime, at 1.71.
Bet on the First Half
The Cleveland players are definitely motivated for revenge following their last defeat against Chicago. The Cavaliers will surely strive to redeem themselves in front of their fans. From the opening minutes of the game, the Ohio team will demonstrate their dominance on the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse court and take control.
Our prediction is a Cleveland win in the first half at 1.74.
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