Sports
Cleveland Cavaliers Aim to Extend Perfect Season Against Chicago Bulls
The Cleveland Cavaliers, boasting an impressive 13-0 record, are set to host the Chicago Bulls at the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse on Friday, November 15, 2024. This matchup marks the second game of the regular season series between these two teams, with the Cavaliers seeking to extend their perfect season.
The Bulls, currently standing at 5-7, are looking to avenge their recent loss to the Cavaliers, which ended 119-113 on November 11. Despite their challenging record, the Bulls have shown resilience, particularly in their last game where they edged out the New York Knicks 124-123. Zach LaVine led the charge with 31 points, eight assists, and seven rebounds, while Coby White‘s clutch free throws sealed the victory.
The Cavaliers, meanwhile, continue to dominate the league. Their latest win against the Philadelphia 76ers, with a score of 114-106, highlighted the team’s strong performance. Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland were key contributors, with Mitchell nearly achieving a triple-double and Garland scoring 25 points along with six assists and five rebounds.
Injury reports indicate that the Bulls are dealing with a relatively small list, including Lonzo Ball out with a right wrist sprain, Adama Sanogo probable with a right knee effusion, and DJ Steward out on a two-way G League contract. The Cavaliers have a slightly longer list, with Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley listed as probable, while Sam Merrill, Emoni Bates, and Max Strus are out due to various injuries.
The odds are heavily in favor of the Cavaliers, with a 10.5-point spread and a moneyline that suggests an 85% chance of them winning. The over/under is set at 237.5 points, reflecting the high-scoring nature of both teams. The Cavaliers have a strong home record, having won eight of their last ten games against the Bulls, and they are expected to continue this trend.
The game promises to be intense, with the Bulls aiming to exploit their rebounding advantage, averaging 46.7 rebounds per game compared to the Cavaliers’ 41.8. However, the Cavaliers’ strong offensive and defensive performances suggest they are well-equipped to handle the challenge).