Cleveland Cavaliers Vs New Orleans Pelicans Prediction, Preview, And Betting Odds
The New Orleans Pelicans and Cleveland Cavaliers are set to clash in an exciting matchup on Thursday, December 21, 2023, at 07:30 PM ET at the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse (Cleveland). Here’s a comprehensive preview of the game, including betting odds, and a game prediction.
- Date: December 21st, 2023
- Time: 7:30 PM Eastern Time
- Location: Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, Cleveland, Ohio
- TV: Bally Sports Great Lakes, Bally Sports Sun
Match Prediction New Orleans Pelicans vs Cleveland Cavaliers
This is a tough call, but I’m leaning slightly towards the Cleveland Cavaliers. Their strong defense and home-court advantage might give them the edge. However, don’t count out the Pelicans, especially if Ingram has a hot night. It’s likely to be a close game with a lot of exciting moments.
Head to Head
The Cleveland Cavaliers and New Orleans Pelicans have faced off 39 times since 2004, with the Pelicans holding a slight edge with 23 wins to the Cavaliers’ 16.
However, in their most recent encounter on February 10th, 2023, the Cavaliers came out on top with a 118-107 victory. Darius Garland led the way with 32 points for Cleveland, while Brandon Ingram dropped 29 points for New Orleans.
New Orleans Pelicans vs Cleveland Cavaliers Preview
This matchup between the Eastern Conference-contending Cavaliers and the up-and-coming Pelicans promises to be an exciting one. Here’s a closer look at what to expect:
Cavaliers:
- Strengths: Top-10 defense, led by Defensive Player of the Year candidate Evan Mobley. The dynamic scoring duo of Darius Garland and Mobley. Improved three-point shooting.
- Weaknesses: Reliant on Garland and Mobley for offense. Struggles against elite backcourts. Less experienced than the Pelicans.
Pelicans:
- Strengths: Brandon Ingram’s scoring prowess (28.5 PPG). Dominant post presence with Jonas Valanciunas. Experienced core with Ingram, CJ McCollum, and Jonas Valanciunas.
- Weaknesses: Inconsistent overall record. Reliant on Ingram to carry the scoring load. Interior defense can be shaky against strong post players.
Cleveland Cavaliers vs New Orleans Pelicans Betting Odds
- Spread: Cavaliers -3.5 (Favorite), Pelicans +3.5 (Underdog)
- Moneyline: Cavaliers -155, Pelicans +135
- Over/Under: 221.5
FAQs for New Orleans Pelicans vs Cleveland Cavaliers
What were the New Orleans Pelicans called before?
the Hornets
Looking to cement ties with its home city, the franchise changed its name from the Hornets (which was a reference to the “hornet’s nest” of American rebels in Charlotte during the American Revolution) to the Pelicans in 2013.
Are the Pelicans an expansion team?
The Pelicans compete in the National Basketball Association (NBA) as a member of the Southwest Division of the Western Conference. The team plays its home games at the Smoothie King Center. Since 2014, the NBA officially considers New Orleans as an expansion team that began play in the 2002–03 season.
Why did New Orleans change its name to Pelicans?
Inspiration for the name change is given to Louisiana’s state bird, the brown pelican. The Pelicans have been owned by Benson’s widow Gayle Benson since her husband died in 2018. In 18 seasons of play the New Orleans franchise has achieved an overall regular season record of 740–864
What is New Orleans known for?
New Orleans is world-renowned for its distinctive music, Creole cuisine, unique dialects, and its annual celebrations and festivals, most notably Mardi Gras. The historic heart of the city is the French Quarter, known for its French and Spanish Creole architecture and vibrant nightlife along Bourbon Street.
How many fans do the Pelicans have?
New Orleans Pelicans number of Facebook fans/Twitter followers 2012-2023. As of October 2023, the National Basketball Association (NBA) franchise New Orleans Pelicans had a total of 1.75 million likes on their Facebook page. Meanwhile, the franchise has accumulated 1.37 million followers on its official Twitter page.
Read More: Detroit Pistons Vs Utah Jazz Prediction, Preview, And Betting Odds
Conclusion
This matchup is shaping up to be a close one, with both teams having their strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors to consider:
