NBA Christmas games are among the most highly anticipated of the season.
This year, we’re getting a terrific Eastern Conference matchup between the Cleveland Cavaliers and New York Knicks. Each team is good enough to get to the NBA Finals. The Cavs are slumping a bit of late, while the Knicks are riding high following their NBA Cup triumph.
With that in mind, let’s dive into my Cavaliers vs Knicks predictions. You’ll find an NBA best bet for the point spread and game total here.
Cavaliers vs Knicks Odds
All NBA odds used for these Cavaliers vs Knicks best bets are current as of Monday, Dec. 22, and courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook.
- Moneyline: Cavaliers (+170) vs Knicks (-205)
- Spread: Cavaliers +5.5 (-108) vs Knicks -5.5 (-112)
- Over/Under: Over 235.5 (-120) / Under 235.5 (+100)
Cavaliers vs Knicks Predictions
Score Prediction: Knicks 123, Cavaliers 114
The most significant factor in this Cavaliers vs Knicks game is the absence of Evan Mobley. That’s a huge loss for the Cavs’ interior defense, as Mobley is one of the best defensive bigs in the NBA.
Without Mobley, it’s going to be tough for the Cavs to slow down Karl-Anthony Towns.
We’ve seen this for the Cavs in their recent meetings with the Bulls. Nikola Vucevic put up 20 and 24 points against them in those games. Vucevic was able to take advantage of the Cavs without Mobley.
Look for Towns to do something similar by taking advantage of the Cavs’ undermanned defense, helping the Knicks to a win.
I know that Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby are banged up right now, but they should be good to go for this marquee matchup.
Cavaliers vs Knicks Best Bets for Christmas 2025
Knicks -5.5 (-112) vs Cavaliers
Aside from Mobley’s absence, we also have to note how dominant the Knicks have been at Madison Square Garden. This team is 14-2 at home on the season, with each of those wins by six or more points.
When the Knicks faced the Cavs back on Oct. 22, they won 119-111. That was a game where Mobley was in the lineup.
With how hot the Knicks have been lately, it feels like a good spot for them here. Considering these two factors, a New York win by six or more points feels easily attainable.
Back the Knicks to handle the Cavs at MSG as your NBA pick of the day.
Over 235.5 Total Points (-120)
This number is juiced to the Over at (-120) for good reason.
Without Mobley in the lineup, the Cavs have allowed 136 and 127 points to the Bulls.
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Additionally, Cleveland ranks eighth in pace, while the Knicks are fourth in points per game. So, here we have a Knicks team that can score at a high rate, playing in a pace-up spot against a Cavs squad without one of its best defenders.
There’s a legit chance that the Knicks pour on the points in this one, even eclipsing 120, considering the major impact that Mobley’s absence should have.
Make this wager with our top sportsbook betting promotions.
