Two of the best teams in the east meet for the first time this season in a primetime tv matchup. This much anticipated matchup has a playoff atmosphere around it. To me a playoff atmosphere means defense.
Defense though is something the Cavs have not excelled at lately having gone over in 2 straight (full game) and allowing close to 51 in the first half over their last 5. Thats considerable consisdering they have only allowed on average 44 in the 1H this season
Think tonight is the night the defense returns for Cleveland. They have gone under in 16 of the last 20 versus teams with a winning % over 70. 8 out of 9 under this season against Southeast Division foes and 13 of 20 on the road.
Orlando struggled last season at home versus Cleveland scoring just 40. This season they are 13 out of 20 under at home and 8 out of 12 under at home when the total is between 95 and 100.
Looks like the line has moved lower with the public on the over. Expect defense to dominate early