The Charlotte Hornets (9-19) visit the Cleveland Cavaliers (15-14) in an Eastern Conference matchup where the struggling Hornets aim to snap a potential skid against a Cavaliers team looking to halt a three-game losing streak amid injury woes. Cleveland, playing at home, seeks to capitalize on Charlotte’s poor road form (3-11 away), while the Hornets hope LaMelo Ball’s probable return sparks their offense. This game could turn on Cleveland’s defensive depth despite absences, potentially limiting Charlotte’s scoring to under 100 points as seen in recent losses. With both teams below .500 in December, expect a gritty, low-possession affair focused on transition play and rebounding.
Venue Location
The game will be held at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio. This modern arena, opened in 1994 and renovated in 2019, has a seating capacity of 19,432 for basketball and features high-definition video boards, premium seating, and a vibrant atmosphere known for its passionate Cavs fans.
Tip-off is set for 7:00 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcast on Bally Sports Ohio for Cavaliers coverage and Bally Sports Southeast for Hornets fans, with streaming available via NBA League Pass. Radio options include the Cavaliers Radio Network (WTAM 1100) and Hornets Radio Network (WFNZ 610 AM).
Injury Report
Injuries loom large, with Cleveland’s frontcourt depleted and Charlotte managing key absences that could strain their depth.
Charlotte Hornets Injuries:
LaMelo Ball (PG): Probable (right wrist soreness); expected to play but may be limited in minutes or handling.
Ryan Kalkbrenner (C): Out (G League – Two-Way); not impacting the rotation significantly.
Additional notes: The Hornets are relatively healthy otherwise, but monitor for any last-minute updates on guards like Collin Sexton (doubtful, undisclosed in some reports, but not confirmed here).
Cleveland Cavaliers Injuries:
Donovan Mitchell (SG): Questionable (illness); a game-time decision that could shift offensive responsibilities to Darius Garland.
Evan Mobley (PF): Out (left calf strain); a major loss for rim protection and rebounding.
Larry Nance Jr. (PF): Out (right calf strain); further thins the frontcourt.
Max Strus (SF): Out (left ankle sprain); impacts spacing and three-point shooting.
Chris Livingston (SF): Out (G League – Two-Way); minimal rotation impact.
Craig Porter Jr. (PG): Questionable (illness); backup guard depth at risk.
Player Matchups to Watch
With injuries reshaping lineups, these battles highlight offensive stars against depleted defenses.
LaMelo Ball (CHA) vs. Darius Garland (CLE): If Ball plays, his creativity (averaging 25+ PPG) tests Garland’s on-ball defense, potentially creating mismatches in transition.
Brandon Miller (CHA) vs. Isaac Okoro (CLE): Miller’s scoring (20+ PPG) faces Okoro’s perimeter defense, key if Mitchell sits.
Miles Bridges (CHA) vs. Dean Wade (CLE, if Mobley out): Bridges’ athleticism exploits Cleveland’s thin frontcourt, focusing on rebounding battles.
Jarrett Allen (CLE) vs. Mark Williams (CHA): Allen’s rim protection (double-double threat) vs. Williams’ size, controlling the paint amid Cavs’ injuries.
Donovan Mitchell (CLE, if active) vs. Tre Mann (CHA): Mitchell’s scoring punch tests Mann’s containment, potentially tilting the game if he’s cleared.
Team Records
Charlotte Hornets: 9-19 overall, struggling in the Southeast Division.
Cleveland Cavaliers: 15-14 overall, holding a Central Division spot but slipping recently.
Recent Team Forms
Cleveland enters on a skid, while Charlotte shows flashes but lacks consistency.
Charlotte Hornets (Last 5 Games): The Hornets are 2-3 in their last five, averaging 114.0 points scored and higher allowed, with defensive lapses. Form: L-L-W-L-W.
| Date | Opponent | Result |
| Dec 20 | @ Detroit | L (score not detailed, but loss implied) |
| Dec 14 | vs Opponent | L |
| Dec 12 | vs Opponent | W |
| Dec 7 | vs Denver | L 106-115 |
| Dec 5 | @ Toronto | W 111-86 |
Cleveland Cavaliers (Last 5 Games): The Cavs are 1-4 in their last five, averaging lower scoring amid injuries. Form: L-L-L-W-L.
| Date | Opponent | Result |
| Dec 19 | vs Chicago | L 125-136 |
| Dec ? | vs Opponent | L |
| Dec ? | vs Opponent | L |
| Nov 5 | vs Philadelphia | W 132-121 |
| Nov 2 | vs Atlanta | L (earlier, but form implies recent losses) |
Series History
The Cavaliers lead the all-time series 79-52 in 131 regular-season games, with a 66.2% win rate. At home, Cleveland is 73.7% successful. Recent trends favor Cleveland, winning 3 of the last 5, including a 115-92 victory on March 25, 2024. Games average moderate scoring, with Cleveland holding a + positive differential historically.
Betting Trends
Trends: Charlotte is 4-8 ATS on the road, but 3-2 ATS as underdogs in recent spots. Cleveland is 5-2 ATS as favorites but 2-3 ATS at home lately. The over has hit in 60% of Hornets road games and 55% of Cavs home contests this season. Charlotte has cashed as +9 or more underdogs in 4 of 6 such games.
Game Odds
Charlotte Hornets 238.5
Cleveland Cavaliers – 9.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Sunday, December 21, 2025
