The Dallas Mavericks managed to break free from a nine-game losing streak Thursday night in Memphis. While this might lift spirits in the locker room, it throws a wrench into their lottery odds.
Khris Middleton, who isn't in the Mavericks' long-term plans, dropped 35 points in a game they might have been better off losing. Now, the Cleveland Cavaliers, fresh off a tough 128-122 loss to Orlando, are coming to town.
The Mavericks have a brief moment to savor their victory before facing a Cavaliers team that’s not here for a friendly visit.
Let’s dive into the matchup details and see where the value lies.
Game Details:
- Matchup: Cleveland Cavaliers (40-26, 18-14 Away) @ Dallas Mavericks (22-43, 14-19 Home)
- Location: American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX
- Time: 6:30 PM CST, March 13, 2026
- Broadcast: Prime Video / NBA App
Betting Snapshot:
- Spread: CLE -12.5 (-105) | DAL +12.5 (-115)
- Total Points: 235.5 (Over -115/Under -105)
- Moneyline: CLE -625 | DAL +455
Game Analysis:
Cleveland is still smarting from Desmond Bane’s late-game heroics in Orlando.
With two days to regroup, they’re ready to face a Mavericks team on the second night of a back-to-back. The Cavaliers, led by Donovan Mitchell and the newly acquired James Harden-who put up 30 points and 8 assists against Orlando-are coming in with a point to prove.
Dallas has shown grit, but they’re outmatched here. The spread is significant, but given the circumstances, it’s justified.
Total Points Prediction:
With both teams likely feeling fatigued, especially Dallas, the pace could slow down considerably in the fourth quarter.
The Mavericks needed a vintage performance from Middleton to secure their last win, and Cleveland’s defense, even without Jarrett Allen and Max Strus, is designed to wear teams down. The under looks promising given the likely tempo and tired legs.
Player Props to Watch:
- Cooper Flagg Over 19.5 Points (-107): Flagg is itching for a breakout game after consistently flirting with the 20-point mark since returning from injury.
Cleveland will focus on containing Middleton and Marshall, leaving Flagg as the X-factor. With consistent minutes and usage, this could be his night to shine.
- Evan Mobley Over 17.5 Points (-120): Mobley has been on a roll, averaging 18.4 points in March. Without Jarrett Allen, he becomes the centerpiece of Cleveland’s frontcourt. Dallas lacks the defensive tools to handle his versatility, making this a favorable matchup for Mobley to exploit.
Conclusion:
Expect Cleveland to cover the -12.5 spread and the game to stay under the total points.
On the player prop side, look for Flagg to finally break the 20-point barrier and Mobley to dominate against an overmatched Dallas frontcourt. As the Mavericks grapple with their lottery prospects, the Cavaliers are poised to capitalize on their momentum.