Cleveland Cavaliers vs Denver Nuggets: Prediction, Starting Lineups and Betting Tips | March 31, 2024

According to reports, the Cleveland Cavaliers have an opportunity to accomplish something that the Boston Celtics were unable to do this season when facing off against the Denver Nuggets on Sunday. The Cavaliers have the chance to defeat the defending champions once again and prevent the Nuggets from scoring. Additionally, Donovan Mitchell has been medically cleared to participate in the upcoming rematch, giving the visiting team a strong chance of achieving this goal.

Despite consecutive losses to the Phoenix Suns and Minnesota Timberwolves, the Nuggets are prepared to bounce back. While Jamal Murray’s absence played a role in both defeats, his availability for the next game is uncertain. Despite dealing with some minor injuries, Nikola Jokic has been cleared to play in the upcoming matchup.

The Cleveland Cavaliers will embark on a challenging five-game road trip starting on Sunday with a highly anticipated matchup against the Denver Nuggets in the Mile High City. A strong performance in this game could potentially propel them past the Milwaukee Bucks in the standings. However, a stumble could result in them falling into the unpredictable and high-stakes play-in tournament.

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The highly anticipated match between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Denver Nuggets will take place at Ball Arena. Viewers can tune in to NBA TV for national coverage, or watch locally on Altitude or Bally Sports Ohio. For those who prefer streaming, the game can also be accessed through a subscription to the NBA League Pass.

The moneyline for the Cavaliers is +180, while the moneyline for the Nuggets is -220.

Total (O/U): The Cavaliers and Nuggets have a combined total of 213.5 points, with the Cavaliers predicted to score over and the Nuggets predicted to score under. Both teams have odds of -110.

Cleveland Cavaliers vs Denver Nuggets: Matchup Analysis

The next five games for the Cleveland Cavaliers will likely determine their final standings after the regular season. Their upcoming road trip will begin with a challenging matchup against one of the top opponents on their schedule. Despite the Denver Nuggets’ recent struggles, they have always been a formidable opponent. Although the Cavaliers have defeated them in the past, they will need to do so again in the Mile High City.

The Denver Nuggets have been impacted by Jamal Murray’s absence, as it has weakened their offensive capabilities. Without him, the team relies heavily on Nikola Jokic as their main shot creator and playmaker. If Murray continues to be absent, the defending champions will need another player to step up and alleviate some of the pressure from the reigning NBA Finals MVP.

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The Cleveland Cavaliers will start with Evan Mobley at power forward, Jarrett Allen at center, Darius Garland at point guard, and Donovan Mitchell and Max Strus at shooting guard.

Recently, Georges Niang has been consistently impressive when coming off the bench for the Cavaliers. He may even have another opportunity to start early in the game, potentially replacing Strus if the starting shooting guard struggles to get going.

The Denver Nuggets’ starting lineup for the tip off will include PF Aaron Gordon, SF Michael Porter Jr., C Nikola Jokic, PG Reggie Jackson, and SG Kentavious Caldwell-Pope.

Justin Holiday or Peyton Watson frequently substitutes in for Jackson to provide defensive coverage and wing size. This may continue against Cleveland, especially with the presence of Donovan Mitchell on the court.

Cleveland Cavaliers vs Denver Nuggets: Expert Betting Predictions

On Sunday, Donovan Mitchell’s over/under points prop is set at 20.5. Despite only playing three games in March due to multiple injuries, the Utah Jazz player, nicknamed “Spid”, has averaged 13.0 points per game. However, he may struggle against the high altitude in Denver and the strong defense of the Nuggets. As a result, Mitchell may not be able to surpass his points prop.

Despite facing off against Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, Nikola Jokic’s 26.5 over/under points prop against Cleveland is likely to result in a big scoring night for “The Joker.”In his last five games, he has averaged 29.6 PPG on 55.3% shooting, making him a strong contender to break through the defending champs’ slump.

Who Will Win: Cleveland Cavaliers vs Denver Nuggets?

Despite being healthier than the Denver Nuggets, the Cleveland Cavaliers will be playing away from their home crowd. The high altitude in Denver has historically posed challenges for opposing teams, but the Nuggets will be without Jamal Murray. However, Nikola Jokic is expected to lead the team’s efforts and secure a victory in their rematch, though the visiting Cavaliers may still be able to cover the spread.