Cleveland Cavaliers vs Charlotte Hornets Prediction | 01.21.26

Cleveland Cavaliers vs Charlotte Hornets Prediction, Odds & NBA Picks | 21-01-2026

As the NBA regular season unfolds, a compelling Eastern Conference matchup is set for January 21, 2026, at 7:00 PM EST, when the Cleveland Cavaliers (24-20) travel to the Spectrum Center in Charlotte to face the Charlotte Hornets (16-27). This encounter pits a Cavaliers squad navigating significant injury woes against a Hornets team looking to gain momentum at home, promising an insightful battle of resilience and star power.

Cleveland Cavaliers vs Charlotte Hornets Matchup Preview

Cleveland Cavaliers Key Stats & Trends

The Cleveland Cavaliers, currently holding a respectable 24-20 record, have been largely powered by the sensational play of guard Donovan Mitchell. Mitchell is the team’s offensive engine, averaging an impressive 29.0 points and 5.7 assists per game, complemented by 4.8 rebounds and 1.5 steals. His ability to score in isolation and create for teammates is crucial, especially with key playmakers sidelined. Young big man Evan Mobley continues to anchor the interior, pulling down 8.6 rebounds per contest and providing a strong defensive presence. Despite their solid record, the Cavaliers’ depth and offensive flow will be severely tested given their current injury situation.

Injury Report Cleveland Cavaliers

• Sam Merrill (Out): Merrill (hand) has been ruled out for Wednesday’s game in Charlotte.
• Darius Garland (Out): Garland will be re-evaluated in the next 7-to-10 days after being diagnosed with a Grade 1 right big toe sprain.
• Max Strus (Out): Strus (foot) is expected to miss at least four more weeks, Marc J. Spears of ESPN.com reports.

Charlotte Hornets Key Stats & Trends

The Charlotte Hornets, with a 16-27 record, have struggled for consistency but possess dynamic talent in LaMelo Ball. Ball leads the team with 19.9 points and an impressive 7.6 assists per game, showcasing his elite playmaking and scoring ability. He also contributes 5.0 rebounds and 1.2 steals, making him a triple-threat on any given night. In the absence of Mason Plumlee, Moussa Diabate has stepped up admirably, leading the team with 8.4 rebounds per game. The Hornets’ primary challenge remains defensive consistency and converting offensive opportunities into wins, particularly against more experienced opponents.

Injury Report Charlotte Hornets

• Tidjane Salaun (Day-to-day): Salaun is listed as probable for Wednesday’s game against the Cavaliers due to left Achilles tendinopathy.
• KJ Simpson (Out): Simpson is out for Wednesday’s game against Cleveland with a left hip flexor strain.
• Mason Plumlee (Out): Plumlee underwent surgery to address his right groin injury and will be reevaluated in six weeks, the Hornets announced.

Cleveland Cavaliers vs Charlotte Hornets Prediction & Best Bet

Considering the current landscape, the Cleveland Cavaliers, despite their significant injuries to Darius Garland and Max Strus, possess enough star power in Donovan Mitchell to overcome the Charlotte Hornets. Mitchell’s ability to single-handedly carry the offense, coupled with Evan Mobley’s defensive impact, gives Cleveland an edge. The Hornets, while dynamic with LaMelo Ball, are also missing key rotational pieces like Mason Plumlee, impacting their interior presence. The Cavaliers’ superior record and overall team structure, even shorthanded, make them the favorite.

Predicted Winner: Cleveland Cavaliers -2.5 (Spread)

Regarding the total points line of 237.5, we anticipate an offense-heavy game. Both teams feature primary ball-handlers in Mitchell and Ball who can dictate pace and score efficiently. The Hornets’ defense can be exploited, and even with Cleveland’s injuries, Mitchell’s scoring prowess combined with the Hornets’ offensive capabilities should push the score past the projected total.

Total Points Pick: Over 237.5