Houston backcourt D is terrific. Plus when we drill down on the number of possessions and likely shots, DMitch will need an exceptional game script to cash. Under

The Cavs are a much lesser version of themselves without Darius Garland and Evan Mobley, but the Rockets are just 2-9 on the road and playing the second of a road/road back-to-back after a shootout in Milwaukee on Sunday night. Half unit.

The Cavs lost three straight before beating the Hawks on Saturday and had yesterday off. The three losses were to the Celtics twice and the Magic once, two of the best teams in the NBA. Houston hit the road and won their second road game of the season at Memphis but then lost yesterday to the Bucks. Between road woes, a cheap number, rest, and the strength of Donovan Mitchell and Jarrett Allen, I’m on the Cavs to cover.

On the surface this may look like a smash spot for Mitchell as the Cavs are severely undermanned without both Darius Garland and Evan Mobley, however this Rockets defense is extremely tough. Houston ranks 2nd in Defensive Efficiency, in addition to the playing at the fourth slowest pace in the league. The Rockets are also extremely difficult on opposing backcourts as they limit enemy guards to the fewest points in the league. Look for Mitchell to receive a lot of defensive attention in what should be a paced down game.