Cleveland Cavaliers (6-0) vs. Milwaukee Bucks (1-4)
Cleveland Cavaliers are undefeated and on a hot streak and this Saturday night will look to further stretch this momentum when they meet the rather jellying Milwaukee Bucks at the Fiserv Forum. Cavaliers are 6-0 at the start of the season and have garnered quite a few praises for their style of play which has quite a few fans as well as top online betting sites excited. Milwaukee Bucks will be trying to change their fortunes at home having started with a rather unpleasing 1-4 record.
The Cavaliers appear invincible, averaging 125.6 points and shooting at 53.9%, it is easy to see why. The last team they faced was the Orlando Magic, whom they beat 120-109 to extend their unbeaten run. They can connect on 14.8 three-point shots made per game while shooting at nearly 41.1 percent. With that in mind, they control the rebounds 40 times and nab almost 12 steals nightly. Though they average 13 turnovers during those games, their ball distribution is equally impressive as they average 28.4 assists which is a testament to the team’s balance and synergy.
In contrast, the Bucks, who did not get off to the smoothest of starts with a record of 1-4, still managed to score an impressive 111 points along with a shooting percentage that was rated 47.1%. Their three pointers’ effectiveness at only 30.6% is unacceptable. They do excel in the rebounding department where they average 43.4 rebounds which is important in averting the Cavaliers chances. With an average of 21.8 assists but a poor turnover rate of 14.4 a game, Milwaukee must work on their ball protection and on their ability to hit the shot from such distances if they are to put up a credible challenge to the Cavaliers.
Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Milwaukee Bucks Game Info
When: | Saturday, November 2, 2024 at 8:00 PM ET |
Where: | Fiserv Forum |
TV: | FDSWI |
Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Donovan Mitchell (SG) vs. Damian Lillard (PG)
Donovan Mitchell has been impressive for the Cavaliers as he is averaging 23.8 points and 5 assists a game. His ability to score and steal the ball (with an average of 2 steals per game) makes him a constant danger. Mitchell’s explosive offensive style will be crucial in dismantling the Bucks’ defense.
On the other hand, the Bucks’ woes don’t seem to affect Damian Lillard, who averages 23.2 points and 6.2 assists per game. For the Bucks, Lillard’s presence on the floor and his ability to control the game would be essential as they seek to let the Cavaliers lose their tempo.
Mitchell’s aggressive defense will most probably be tested by Lillard’s experience and smart play. The battle of these two players will be very important for the flow of the game and the results. Both will be balanced in terms of shooting and passes which will make their encounter very interesting. This duel will narrow down individual efforts but will provide an interesting twist as they will have to perform as a team in crucial circumstances of the game.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: Milwaukee Bucks -128, Total Odds: 231
The current betting odds favor the Bucks slightly, despite their poor record, which may surprise some bettors. The odds suggest that the Bucks’ home-court advantage and desperation for a win could be influential factors. However, the Cavaliers’ strong start and cohesive team play might sway more bets in their favor as the game approaches.
Cleveland Cavaliers Betting Trends
The Cavaliers have been exceptional against the spread, going 8-0 in their last eight games. Their ability to consistently outperform expectations, coupled with their solid over record (6-2 in recent games), makes them a reliable bet for those looking at trends. Their flawless record on the road (5-0 ATS) further solidifies their status as a formidable opponent in away games.
Milwaukee Bucks Betting Trends
Conversely, the Bucks have struggled, going 1-5 both ATS and SU in their last six games. However, their past performance at home against the Cavaliers, where they are 10-2 SU in the last 12 games, provides a glimmer of hope. The total going UNDER in 4 of their last 5 matchups with Cleveland suggests a potential trend for bettors leaning towards a lower-scoring affair.
Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Milwaukee Bucks 11/2/24 Betting Picks
Given the statistical analysis and current form of both teams, my recommendation leans towards backing the Cavaliers to cover the spread. Their offensive efficiency and defensive tenacity provide them a distinct edge over the Bucks. For those looking at the total, considering the high-scoring nature of the Cavaliers and the under trends in Bucks’ recent games against them, betting on the over might be tempting but risky.
For basketball picks today, the safer bet seems to be on the Cavaliers to continue their streak, possibly winning outright in a close contest. Prop bets on players like Mitchell to score over his points average could also offer value, given his current form.