Toronto Raptors vs Cleveland Cavaliers Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 01/01/2024, 05:38  by Joseph King | Modified on 01/01/2024 at 11:30 in NBA Prediction

The 12th-place Toronto Raptors host the sixth-placed Cleveland Cavaliers for this New Year’s Day Eastern Conference matchup. The Raptors suffered a humiliating 129-127 loss to the Pistons in their last outing, becoming the team to finally end Detroit’s record-breaking losing streak at 28 games. They’ll now look to recover some pride as they return to the Scotiabank Arena for their first game of 2024. It hasn’t been a good season for Raptor fans as they’ve seen their team struggle to a 12-20 record. Following the loss to the Pistons, Toronto has now lost five of their last six with their only win during that time coming against the lowly Wizards. In response, Toronto opted for a trade that should send OG Anunoby and two other players to the Knicks for RJ Barrett and Immamuel Quickley, both of which could make their debuts here.

The Cavaliers head up north looking to bounce back after a 119-111 home loss to the Bucks last Friday. It snapped a two game winning streak for Cleveland, whose form has been strong with five wins from their last seven games. The Cavs were given great news with the return of star Donovan Mitchell who dropped 34 points in the loss to Milwaukee. The visitors should also take confidence from the fact that they beat Toronto 105-102 back in November. Cleveland has traveled well this season with nine wins from their 15 appearances. The Cavs have excelled on the defensive side of the ball this campaign, ranking sixth in adjusted defensive net rating. Additionally, Cleveland’s +2.0 adjusted net rating ranks them ninth in the NBA while Toronto comes in down at 22nd.