Cavaliers Host Struggling Pelicans: Preview and Predictions for November 20 NBA Matchup

The Cleveland Cavaliers, boasting an impressive 15-1 record, are set to host the struggling New Orleans Pelicans at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse on Wednesday, November 20. The Cavaliers, despite suffering their first loss of the season against the Boston Celtics with a 120-117 score, remain strong, especially at home where they are 8-0.

The New Orleans Pelicans, on the other hand, are facing significant challenges, having won only one of their last nine games. Injuries have severely impacted their lineup, with key players such as Zion Williamson and Dejounte Murray out for the game. The Pelicans recently suffered a devastating 132-91 loss to the Dallas Mavericks, highlighting their current struggles.

The Cavaliers have dominated the Pelicans in recent matchups, winning the last two encounters with scorelines of 116-95 and 131-122. Cleveland’s strong home record and high-scoring offense, averaging 123.3 points per game, make them favorites for this game. The Cavaliers are favored by 13.5 points, with an over/under of 223 points.

Despite the odds, the Pelicans have shown some resilience on the road against the Cavaliers, going 4-2 against the spread in their last six road games in Cleveland. However, their current form and injury woes make it a tough task to overcome the Cavaliers’ strong home advantage.

Evan Mobley and Donovan Mitchell are expected to be key players for the Cavaliers, with Mobley recently posting a double-double against the Celtics and Mitchell averaging 25.3 points per game. For the Pelicans, Brandon Ingram will be crucial, given his recent form in hitting three-pointers.