NBA · December 31, 2025

Phoenix Suns @ Cleveland Cavaliers

Free LineCrush game report for Phoenix Suns @ Cleveland Cavaliers on December 31, 2025, with matchup analysis and pick ideas generated for the daily slate. Reports can update as lineups, injuries, and odds develop, so confirm time-sensitive details before acting.

Matchup Analysis

Suns Guard Depth Tested Without Allen

Grayson Allen is doubtful with a right knee injury, forcing the Suns to lean heavily on Devin Booker and reserve wing depth. This defensive liability could be exploited by Cleveland's wing scorers, particularly in the latter quarters.

Cavaliers Frontcourt Injuries Impact Paint Defense

Larry Nance Jr. (out, right calf strain) and Max Strus (out, left foot Jones fracture) leave the Cavaliers shorthanded in the frontcourt. Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley will face heavy minutes managing both offensive and defensive rebounding.

Dunn's Availability Crucial for Suns Perimeter Defense

Ryan Dunn is questionable with a right knee contusion. His availability matters significantly for defending the Cavaliers' wing attack, particularly against Donovan Mitchell and supporting wings.

Cavaliers' Bench Depth Advantage

Sam Merrill is probable for Cleveland with left hip soreness, providing guard depth that the depleted Suns cannot match with Green sidelined long-term by hamstring strain and Allen likely unavailable.

Booker-Mitchell Scoring Matchup

Devin Booker (projected 21 PPG) faces Donovan Mitchell (projected 13.5 PPG) in a potential first-quarter tone-setter. Booker's offensive load increases given Phoenix's injury situation, making early shot efficiency critical.

Pick Ideas

Cavaliers -6.5 Spread

Cleveland's at-home advantage combined with Phoenix's guard injuries (Allen doubtful, Green out) gives the Cavaliers edge in wing defense and depth. Play the home team.

Under 234.5 Total Points

Both teams face rotation disruptions and defensive instability from injuries, leading to potential halfcourt pacing and lower-efficiency possessions rather than pace-and-space basketball.

Jarrett Allen Over 16.5 Rebounds

With Nance sidelined and Strus out, Allen shoulders additional rebounding duty against a Suns team missing wing depth for frontcourt support.

Donovan Mitchell Over 13.5 Points

Mitchell benefits from Booker's increased offensive burden and Cleveland's at-home spacing with Strus unavailable to defend perimeter.