NBA Predictions: How Donovan Mitchell Could Shape the Cavaliers vs. Knicks Holiday Clash

The NBA returns with an exciting Christmas Day matchup featuring the Cleveland Cavaliers and New York Knicks. The game kicks off at 12 p.m. ET and pits an improving Knicks team against a Cavaliers squad struggling to match last season’s success.

Cleveland has dropped to a 17-14 record, a notable regression from last season when they finished with the best record in the Eastern Conference. New York holds a 20-9 mark and sits second in the East, riding the momentum of winning seven out of their last 10 games. Their prior meeting ended in a 119-111 victory for the Knicks early this season.

Donovan Mitchell’s Impact on the Game

Donovan Mitchell leads the Cavaliers with a strong scoring average of 30.6 points per game and contributes 5.4 assists on average. Despite this, projections suggest Mitchell will not surpass 36.5 combined points and assists on Christmas. The SportsLine Projection Model, which simulates the game 10,000 times, forecasts him producing around 30.4 combined points plus assists in the matchup held in New York.

Knicks Favored at Home

Jalen Brunson remains the Knicks’ primary offensive threat, averaging 29.1 points and 6.6 assists per contest. New York’s home court advantage is significant, reflected in their impressive 14-2 record at Madison Square Garden. Although Cleveland is competitive, the model supports backing the Knicks to cover a 5.5-point spread on their home floor.

Game Total Set Below 241 Points

Both teams feature potent offenses, ranking fifth and sixth in scoring in the league, with New York averaging 120.1 points and Cleveland 120.0 per game. Their last encounter produced 230 combined points, falling under the current total of 240.5. The projection leans toward a 122-116 result, with the under hitting in just over 55% of model simulations.

Same-Game Parlay Picks to Consider

1. Donovan Mitchell Under 36.5 points plus assists
2. New York Knicks -5.5 spread
3. Total points scored Under 240.5

These picks are derived from data available via FanDuel Sportsbook and the SportsLine Projection Model, providing a balanced approach for NBA bettors focused on Christmas Day.

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