Cleveland-cavaliers vs La Clippers Picks and Predictions March 30th 2025

Clippers Eye Another Statement Win vs. Cavaliers

The Los Angeles Clippers are heating up at just the right time. After securing back-to-back dominant wins to open a pivotal Eastern Conference road swing, the Clippers now have their sights set on a complete sweep — and the Eastern Conference-leading Cleveland Cavaliers are next in their crosshairs.

Sunday’s matchup in Cleveland marks the second meeting between these teams in less than two weeks. The Clippers took the first game in commanding fashion, 132-119, on March 18 in Los Angeles. Now, they’ll aim to do it again on the road, riding a powerful wave of momentum.

See how this matchup fits into the full playoff picture at the NBA Scores & Odds.

Clippers: Rising at the Right Time

Los Angeles (42-31) is rolling through March. Winners of seven of their last eight and 10 of their last 12, the Clippers have found their rhythm — and Kawhi Leonard is leading the charge. Leonard poured in 31 points in just 27 minutes in Friday’s 132-100 beatdown of Brooklyn, and he’s now scored 23+ in eight consecutive games.

Health and consistency have been the theme: Leonard has suited up for seven straight contests, his second-longest stretch of the season.

“It’s always a blessing to have a winning season,” Leonard said after the team locked in its 14th straight winning campaign.

James Harden is also finding his form, averaging 22.5 points per game and facilitating the Clippers’ high-powered offense. Norman Powell is right behind him at 22.4 points, giving the Clippers reliable scoring across the perimeter.

Ivica Zubac continues to dominate the paint, pulling down 12.5 rebounds per game — fourth-best in the league. His ability to anchor the interior has been a key factor in L.A.’s defensive identity.

See how the Clippers stack up in the NBA Pacific Division Odds & Predictions.

Cavaliers: Defensive Identity in Jeopardy

Cleveland (59-15) still holds the East’s top spot, but recent play has raised eyebrows. The Cavs are 3-5 in their last eight, including a concerning 133-122 loss to the Detroit Pistons on Friday.

A major issue? Opponents are pounding them on the glass. The Cavaliers gave up 16 offensive rebounds to Detroit — their eighth consecutive game allowing more than their season average of 11.6.

“It’s not sustainable,” head coach Kenny Atkinson said. “Between the offensive rebounds and the free throws, it just kills your defense.”

Cleveland’s once-elite defense has slipped, and that’s concerning with the postseason looming. Still, the Cavaliers boast one of the league’s most talented rosters.

Donovan Mitchell leads the team in scoring at 24.0 points per game, with Darius Garland adding 20.7. Inside, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen remain a fearsome frontcourt duo, combining length, defense, and rebounding — though both will be tested Sunday against Zubac’s presence and the Clippers’ physicality.

For conference-wide projections, check out the NBA Eastern Conference Odds.

Key Matchups to Watch

Kawhi Leonard vs. Donovan Mitchell
Two All-NBA wings go head-to-head. Leonard has the edge in efficiency and defense, but Mitchell’s explosiveness can’t be overlooked.

Zubac vs. Mobley/Allen
The rebounding battle will be critical. Cleveland’s frontcourt needs to bounce back from recent struggles against a top-tier rebounder like Zubac.

Harden and Powell vs. Garland
Harden’s playmaking and Powell’s shot-making stretch Cleveland’s perimeter defense. Garland must match their offensive output while keeping turnovers low.

What’s at Stake

• The Clippers are battling for top-six position in the West and are just two games behind the Lakers and Grizzlies for home-court advantage.
• The Cavaliers are trying to maintain their lead atop the East, but Boston is closing fast.
• A win for L.A. would secure a 2-0 season sweep over the Cavs, a major boost in confidence as the playoffs approach.

See full postseason forecasts at the NBA Championship Odds & Predictions.

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Final Word

This is a statement game for both teams. The Clippers want to prove they’re ready to make a deep playoff run, while the Cavaliers are looking to reclaim their defensive identity and lock down the No. 1 seed.

Can Leonard continue his hot streak and lead L.A. to another marquee win? Or will Mitchell and Mobley help Cleveland bounce back on home court?

Don’t miss this high-stakes battle — and for expert predictions and betting breakdowns, head to the NBA Expert Betting Guide.