Phoenix-suns vs Cleveland-cavaliers Picks and Predictions March 21st 2025

Cavaliers Look to Bounce Back vs. Surging Suns

The Cleveland Cavaliers (56-13), Eastern Conference leaders, are set to face the Phoenix Suns (33-37) on Friday night, aiming to snap a rare three-game losing streak. The Cavs are currently on a five-game Western Conference road swing and have already dropped their first two contests, falling to the Los Angeles Clippers (132-119) and Sacramento Kings (123-119) on back-to-back nights.

The skid, coupled with a prior 108-103 home loss to the Orlando Magic, marks the Cavaliers’ longest losing streak of the season. Despite the slump, Cleveland still holds a comfortable lead in the East, but the Boston Celtics are closing in, cutting the gap to just six games with three straight wins.

However, Cleveland’s recent struggles have cost them the league’s best record, as they now trail the Oklahoma City Thunder by one game. The loss of defensive intensity has been a concern, as they surrendered a combined 255 points over the past two games.

Defensive Issues Plague Cavaliers

After allowing the Clippers to score 132 points, tied for the fifth-highest yield this season, Cleveland also gave up 76 second-half points to the Kings. Cavs forward Evan Mobley addressed the defensive lapses after Wednesday’s defeat, stating, “We’ve been having slippage on the defensive side… We just get complacent when we get up these last few games.”

Even though Cleveland still boasts the NBA’s highest-scoring offense at 122.4 points per game, their defensive ranking of 11th, allowing 112 points per game, remains a critical area for improvement. Darius Garland, who averages 20.9 points per game, was rested against Sacramento but is expected to return against Phoenix.

Phoenix Suns Heating Up at Home

The Phoenix Suns are on an upward trajectory, winning three of their last four games and their first two outings on a crucial five-game homestand. They currently find themselves in a tie for 10th place in the Western Conference with the Dallas Mavericks, fighting for the final play-in spot.

Phoenix’s 127-121 victory over the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday showcased their offensive firepower, led by Devin Booker’s 41-point explosion. Booker has now recorded four 40-plus-point games this season, and his elite scoring will be crucial against a Cavaliers defense that has shown vulnerabilities.

Another rising star for the Suns is guard Collin Gillespie, who, despite scoring just four points, made a significant impact with seven assists, five rebounds, and a steal against the Bulls. Suns coach Mike Budenholzer praised Gillespie’s contributions, noting his energy on defense and his ability to push the pace.

“We’re always talking about different combinations, different ways to use guys,” Budenholzer said. “He’s pesky, he gets up in, he picks up full court, gets on the boards.”

Matchup to Watch: Backcourt Battle

Phoenix will be challenged defensively by Cleveland’s dynamic backcourt duo of Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland. Mitchell leads the team with 24.1 points per game, while Garland adds crucial scoring and playmaking. Ty Jerome has also stepped up lately, scoring in double figures in four consecutive games.

On the other side, Phoenix’s guard rotation, featuring Tyus Jones and Grayson Allen, will look to match Cleveland’s production. Jones averages 10.4 points and 5.7 assists per game, while Allen brings a scoring spark off the bench with 10.7 points per game.

Key Betting Insights and Expert Picks

• Pick Page: Cavaliers are favored to bounce back after their recent skid, but the Suns’ home-court advantage could make it closer than expected.
• Odds Page: Expect a high-scoring affair given both teams’ offensive capabilities and recent defensive lapses.
• Expert Betting Guide: With the Cavs’ motivation to end their losing streak and the Suns fighting to maintain play-in positioning, the safe bet could be on the Cavaliers covering the spread.

NBA Championship and Playoff Outlook

• NBA Championship Odds: Cleveland remains among the favorites, but recent struggles have slightly impacted their odds.
• Western Conference Playoff Race: Phoenix must keep pace with the Mavericks and other contenders to secure a play-in berth.
• Clutch Player: Devin Booker’s scoring prowess will be vital down the stretch, while Donovan Mitchell needs to lead the Cavs’ resurgence.
• NBA MVP Race: Mitchell’s scoring contributions continue to bolster his standing, while Booker’s consistency keeps him relevant.

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Final Thoughts

The Cavaliers are looking to regain their footing after an unusual three-game losing streak, while the Suns aim to maintain momentum at home. With playoff positioning at stake for both squads, this game promises to be a high-intensity battle.

Will Cleveland’s defense tighten up, or will Devin Booker lead Phoenix to another victory? All eyes will be on how both teams handle the pressure as the regular season winds down.