In an exciting clash of talent, the Cleveland Cavaliers are set to face off against the Oklahoma City Thunder in a highly anticipated non-conference matchup.
As of January 18, 2026, the Oklahoma City Thunder hold a remarkable record of 35 wins and 8 losses, positioning them firmly at the top of the Western Conference standings. In contrast, the Cleveland Cavaliers have a solid record of 24 wins and 19 losses, placing them sixth in the Eastern Conference.
This thrilling game is scheduled for Monday at 2:30 p.m. EST in Cleveland. According to the latest from BETMGM Sportsbook, the Cavaliers are favored by 1.5 points, with an over/under set at 229.5.
What makes this matchup particularly fascinating is the contrasting playing styles of both teams. The Cleveland Cavaliers have excelled at home, boasting a 14-10 record, and rank sixth in the NBA with an impressive average of 28.8 assists per game, led by star guard Donovan Mitchell, who is contributing an average of 5.7 assists.
On the other hand, the Thunder have demonstrated their strength on the road with a 15-5 record. They stand out defensively, allowing just 108.0 points per game and restricting opponents to a shooting percentage of 43.2%.
When it comes to three-point shooting, the Cavaliers have been prolific, averaging 15.1 made three-pointers per game, which is only slightly above the 14.5 that the Thunder concede. Offensively, Oklahoma City has averaged 121.1 points per game, compared to the 117.4 points that Cleveland allows, showcasing a potential high-scoring encounter.
Highlighting the key performers, Donovan Mitchell leads the Cavaliers with an impressive average of 29.2 points, along with 5.7 assists and 1.5 steals. Darius Garland has also been a significant contributor, averaging 17.8 points and 6.6 assists in the last ten games.
For the Thunder, Ajay Mitchell has been making a mark with an average of 14.2 points while shooting an efficient 48.3%. Isaiah Joe has been a reliable three-point shooter as well, sinking an average of 1.6 three-pointers over the past ten games.
In their last ten games, the Cavaliers have performed well, achieving a 7-3 record while averaging 121.5 points, 44.1 rebounds, 32.9 assists, 8.5 steals, and 5.7 blocks per game with an impressive shooting percentage of 50.4%. Their opponents during this stretch have averaged 116.2 points.
The Thunder, also 7-3 in their last ten contests, have been productive, averaging 117.7 points, 42.0 rebounds, 24.8 assists, 9.5 steals, and 7.7 blocks per game with a shooting percentage of 47.7%. Their opponents have averaged 108.5 points during this period.
In terms of injuries, the Cavaliers are dealing with several challenges as Max Strus is out due to a foot injury, while Dean Wade and Darius Garland are listed as day-to-day with knee and foot issues respectively. Additionally, Sam Merrill is also day-to-day with a hand injury.
The Thunder are facing their own injury concerns, with Nikola Topic out due to a groin issue, Jalen Williams out with a thigh injury, and Thomas Sorber out for the season due to a knee injury. Isaiah Hartenstein is day-to-day with a calf problem.
As we approach this intriguing game, which team do you believe will come out on top? Will the Cavaliers' home-court advantage propel them to victory, or will the Thunder's defensive prowess carry the day? Share your thoughts!
