Charlotte Hornets vs Cleveland Cavaliers Picks and Predictions for Sunday December 14 2025
Game Information
The Charlotte Hornets (7–18, 2–10 away) travel to Rocket Arena to face the Cleveland Cavaliers (15–11, 9–6 home) in a Sunday afternoon Eastern Conference matchup tipping off at 3:30 PM ET. Cleveland comes in riding momentum after a strong road win and remains firmly in the playoff picture, while Charlotte continues to struggle away from home. Before placing your bets on this game or the rest of the Sunday slate, be sure to check out all the latest insights and analysis on our free NBA Picks page.
Team Overview: Charlotte Hornets
Charlotte enters this matchup having lost four of its last five and eight of its last ten games, with defensive lapses continuing to plague the team. The Hornets are giving up 118.7 points per game, struggling particularly against teams that attack early in the shot clock or exploit mismatches in transition. Miles Bridges leads the team at 21.4 points per game and remains their most reliable offensive option, but the supporting cast has been inconsistent, especially with multiple rotation players sidelined. On the road, Charlotte has been particularly vulnerable, posting just a 2–10 away record and frequently falling behind early.
Team Overview: Cleveland Cavaliers
Cleveland continues to lean on elite guard play and improved offensive efficiency, averaging 119.0 points per game while allowing 115.8. Donovan Mitchell is coming off a huge performance and is now averaging 31.3 points per game on efficient shooting, firmly establishing himself as one of the league’s premier scorers. The Cavaliers are 5–5 over their last ten but have been far more reliable at home, where they control tempo and execute well in the half court. Despite injuries to key frontcourt pieces, Cleveland’s guard play and perimeter shooting continue to give them a high offensive ceiling.
Key Players to Watch
Miles Bridges (CHA): Charlotte’s top scorer and primary offensive weapon. Bridges must be aggressive early and efficient from the perimeter for the Hornets to have any chance of staying close. Donovan Mitchell (CLE): Fresh off a monster outing, Mitchell’s shot creation, downhill pressure, and ability to take over games late make him the clear focal point. Charlotte has struggled all season to contain elite guards.
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Injury Report
Charlotte remains shorthanded, with Grant Williams, Collin Sexton, Tre Mann, and Pat Connaughton all ruled out. Tidjane Salaun is listed as a game-time decision, further thinning Charlotte’s depth. Cleveland will be without Evan Mobley and Larry Nance Jr., while Sam Merrill and Max Strus are also sidelined. Jarrett Allen is listed as questionable, but even if limited, Cleveland retains a significant talent edge.
Matchup Breakdown
This matchup heavily favors Cleveland due to Charlotte’s defensive inconsistencies and lack of depth. The Cavaliers’ ability to space the floor and attack through Mitchell should create constant pressure on a Hornets defense that struggles to rotate and protect the paint. Cleveland also holds an advantage in ball movement and shot quality, while Charlotte often relies on isolation scoring. Unless Charlotte shoots exceptionally well from beyond the arc, they are likely to struggle keeping pace for four quarters.
Betting Outlook
Cleveland opened as a double-digit home favorite, a reflection of Charlotte’s road struggles and Cleveland’s scoring upside. With Mitchell in elite form and the Hornets missing several rotation players, the Cavaliers are positioned to control this game early. The total is set high due to Charlotte’s defensive profile, though Cleveland could dictate pace once a lead is established. Betting on sports and on the Cavaliers is easy, but even easier if you use the best sportsbooks. Make sure you know about how the fans are looking on prediction markets for the Hornets with the social sportsbooks. Getting the most out of your bets on Cavaliers vs Hornets can be done by using the Fanatics Sportsbook promo code.
Final Score Prediction
Cleveland Cavaliers 124, Charlotte Hornets 110
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