During their last five games, the Cavaliers have scored an average of 112.6 points per game (2.3 above their season average) and allowed an average of 114.4 points per game (4.3 above their season average).
While Cleveland's season will ultimately be defined by the post-season, it's fair to say that neither franchise has had the kind of regular season performance they'd have hoped for, leaving the last few weeks as an exercise in trying to round into form at the right time. Chicago has now lost 10 of its last 14 games. The Cavaliers rank 23rd in points allowed in the paint per game (46.8).
The Cavaliers rank 22nd in rebounds per game (41.9) while the Bucks rank 29th (39.7). Even if Nance is available for the Cavaliers' following contest Wednesday against the Raptors, it appears his run as the team's primary center could be coming to an end with Kevin Love (hand) trending toward a return this week. LeBron James is averaging 27.1 points and nine assists while Jordan Clarkson is averaging 13.7 points and 2.1 assists. Cleveland is 5 in the league by shooting 47.6 percent from the field. Cleveland's free throw rate was their biggest advantage over Chicago. The Cavaliers can ill afford to keep blowing double digit leads if they hope to have any postseason success.
The Milwaukee Bucks need a win here to improve their playoff seeding after splitting their last eight games. Cleveland will be minus Love, who is expected back on March 23 at the moment, and Thompson, while Korver, Nance Jr, Hood and Cedi Osman are all question marks.
The over is 4-0 in the Bucks' last four overall, 4-0 in their last four after allowing at least 100 points, 4-1 in their last five after a straight up win, 4-1 in their last five against the Eastern Conference and 4-1 in their last five after an ATS loss.
At home, Cleveland is 7-25-1 ATS with 16 overs, 16 unders and 1 push.
20 March 2018
20 March 2018
20 March 2018
20 March 2018
20 March 2018
20 March 2018
20 March 2018
