Washington Wizards (9-41) vs Cleveland Cavaliers (41-10)
Game Info: Friday, February 7, 2025 at 7:00 pm (Capital One Arena)
Betting Odds: Washington Wizards +17.5 -- Over/Under: 236 Click Here for the Latest Odds
Where to Watch: NBA League Pass
The Cleveland Cavaliers (41-10) are set to face the Washington Wizards (9-41) on February 7, 2025, at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. The Cavaliers, leading the Eastern Conference, recently bolstered their roster by acquiring forward De'Andre Hunter from the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for guard Caris LeVert, forward Georges Niang, three second-round picks, and two pick swaps. Hunter has been a standout sixth man this season, averaging 19.0 points and 3.9 rebounds per game off the bench.
This matchup presents a stark contrast between the league-leading Cavaliers and the struggling Wizards. The Cavaliers will aim to integrate their new acquisition, De'Andre Hunter, and continue their dominance in the Eastern Conference, while the Wizards seek to break their home losing streak and find some momentum in a challenging season.
Jarrett Allen Over 10.5 Rebounds
Jarrett Allen has been a consistent and impactful presence on the boards for the Cleveland Cavaliers during this NBA season. He has appeared in 49 games, averaging 13.7 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. In a standout performance on January 9, 2025, Allen recorded 25 points and 11 rebounds, contributing significantly to the Cavaliers' 129-122 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Jarrett Allen has had at least 10 boards in five of his last six games. Just a couple of games ago he secured 18 boards against the Boston Celtics. Allen is truly one of the best rebounders in this league. This sets up for him to have another big game rebounding the ball against the Washington Wizards who lack presence in the paint. Washington is giving up 56.6 rebounds per game to opposing teams which is the most in the league.
Darius Garland Over 21.5 Points
Darius Garland has been a pivotal player for the Cleveland Cavaliers during the 2024-25 NBA season. He’s averaging 21.8 points, 6.8 assists, and 2.5 rebounds per game. His shooting efficiency includes a field goal percentage of 50.1% and a three-point shooting percentage of 42.9%.
In a standout performance in the Cavs' last game, Garland scored 25 points, including 4 of 7 from three-point range, and contributed 5 assists in a 118-115 victory over the Detroit Pistons. In that game, he scored a buzzer-beater three-pointer to win the game for the Cavs. I like how Garland has been playing lately. He's cleared this line of 21.5 points in seven of his last eight games. Now he gets the easiest matchup in the NBA going against this Wizards team and I expect him to have another great game scoring the ball.
Jordan Poole Under 20.5 Points
Jordan Poole has been a key offensive contributor for the Washington Wizards this season. As of February 5, 2025, he has appeared in 43 games, averaging 20.3 points, 4.9 assists, and 3.1 rebounds per game. His shooting efficiency includes a field goal percentage of 41.3% and a three-point shooting percentage of 38.8%.
Jordan Poole has scored 20 or more points in just one game in his last 10. In this 10-game stretch, we've seen him have games where he only scored three points against the Raptors and six points against the Hornets. It shocks me that oddsmakers continue to set his points line above the 20-point mark. Until Jordan Poole shows me something different I'll be looking to continue to fade him on his points.
Brad’s Pick See Above
AUTHOR: Brad Francis
