Through the early part of the season, the Cleveland Cavaliers have quietly become one of the most dependable under teams in the NBA. Totals for their games often open between 219 and 223, yet the final scores frequently land closer to the low 210s or even below 205. These aren’t fluke outcomes. They’re connected to Cleveland’s identity and style of play.
The Cavaliers’ roster is built around length, discipline, and half-court control. Their defense is anchored by two elite rim protectors, and their perimeter defenders excel at steering ball handlers into the help. Opposing offenses struggle to score in the paint against them, and because Cleveland limits second-chance opportunities, opponents are forced into contested jumpers.
On offense, Cleveland doesn’t push pace. They prefer methodical sets, heavy pick-and-roll usage, and multiple passes before the shot. Even when their offense is efficient, it’s rarely fast. They rank near the bottom of the league in possessions per game, which directly influences total outcomes. Slower games mean fewer possessions, and fewer possessions mean fewer scoring opportunities.
Oddsmakers have started adjusting their totals downward, but not aggressively enough. Many sportsbooks price totals based on league averages and opponent scoring rather than Cleveland’s system-driven tendencies. This creates value early in the season before the market fully calibrates.
Another factor is Cleveland’s inconsistent shooting. When their threes fall, they can get into the 110–115 range, but they also endure long stretches of cold shooting. Those droughts kill game totals because Cleveland often responds by slowing the pace even further.
Home games trend especially under because the Cavaliers lean more into their half-court defensive identity.
The under remains a strong option as long as totals stay above 220.
Prediction: Under 221 or higher
