Cleveland Cavaliers vs Los Angeles Clippers – Preview & Prediction (Nov. 23, 2025)

NBA action comes to Cleveland on November 23, 2025, when the Cavaliers host the Los Angeles Clippers. Here’s a straightforward look at how both teams match up and what to expect when the ball tips.

Preview

The Cavaliers have been a bit streaky this season but look to be finding some rhythm lately. They’ve recently put together three wins in four games and come into this matchup following a 120–109 home victory over the Indiana Pacers. Cleveland has benefited from a lighter travel schedule in recent days, which should help their energy levels.

Offensively the Cavs sit around league average, but their defense has been the bigger strength — they’re giving opponents fits on that end. Donovan Mitchell is carrying much of the scoring load, averaging just over 30 points per game while contributing solid playmaking and rebounding. Evan Mobley provides a consistent interior presence and DeAndre Hunter is another reliable scoring option. Depth has been a factor, with several players sharing the scoring responsibilities as the roster finds its steadiness.

The Clippers, on the other hand, have struggled to this point. Injuries and inconsistent availability have taken a toll: they’ve won only a couple of games in their last 10 outings and are still looking for continuity. James Harden has shown he can still put up big scoring numbers, but team results haven’t followed. Ivica Zubac has been productive inside, and veterans like Nicolas Batum and Brook Lopez have contributed when available, yet the supporting cast and defensive focus haven’t consistently clicked.

Prediction & team news

Injuries will play a role in this one. The Cavaliers will be without Max Strus and Sam Merrill, and Jarrett Allen is questionable. The Clippers will be missing Bradley Beal, Derrick Jones, and Jordan Miller, with Bogdan Bogdanovic listed as questionable. Availability for key rotation players could swing the game’s tempo and matchups.

Head-to-head, the recent trend between these teams has favored the home side — each of their last five meetings has been won by the host. With Cleveland playing at home, rested, and showing better team balance, they enter as the clearer side in form.

Final pick: Cleveland Cavaliers by a comfortable margin. Prediction: Cleveland Cavaliers -8.5. Tip-off: Sunday, 6:00 p.m. EST, November 23, 2025. Odds quoted at time of writing: 1.77. Suggested stake: 1 unit. As always, check the latest injury updates and local broadcast listings before tip-off.