Event Preview
Overview
The Cleveland Cavaliers are set to host the Golden State Warriors on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM EST. This matchup is significant as both teams are vying for favorable positions in their respective conferences, with the Cavaliers leading the Eastern Conference and the Warriors aiming to improve their standing in the Western Conference.
Season Snapshot
Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavaliers have been a dominant force in the Eastern Conference, boasting a 27-4 record as of late December 2024. Their offensive prowess is evident, leading the conference with an average of 122.7 points per game and shooting 50.6% from the field. Key contributors include Donovan Mitchell, who is averaging 23.6 points per game, and Darius Garland, who adds 16.4 points and 6.1 assists per game. (foxsports.com)
Golden State Warriors
The Warriors have faced challenges this season, holding a 16-15 record by late December 2024. Their offense averages 114.5 points per game, with Stephen Curry leading the team with 27.9 points per game. However, the team has struggled with consistency, especially in close games, holding a 1-3 record in one-possession games. (foxsports.com)
Recent Form
Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavaliers have been on a strong run, extending their winning streak to seven games with a 113-95 victory over the Warriors on December 30, 2024. Darius Garland led the team with 25 points and eight assists, while Donovan Mitchell added 23 points. Dean Wade contributed a double-double with 10 points and 13 rebounds. (espn.com)
Golden State Warriors
The Warriors have experienced a mix of results, including a narrow 99-98 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on December 5, 2025. In that game, VJ Edgecombe's late putback secured the win for the 76ers. The Warriors have been without key players like Steph Curry and Jimmy Butler, and lost Draymond Green early to injury in the recent game. (reuters.com)
Talking Points
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Cavaliers' Offensive Dominance: Can Cleveland's high-scoring offense continue to overpower opponents, especially against a Warriors team struggling defensively?
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Warriors' Injury Woes: How will the absence of key players like Steph Curry and Jimmy Butler impact Golden State's performance?
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Defensive Matchups: With the Cavaliers' strong offense and the Warriors' defensive challenges, which team will impose their will on the defensive end?
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Playoff Implications: How crucial is this game for both teams in terms of playoff positioning as the season progresses?
Players to Watch
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Donovan Mitchell (Cavaliers): Averaging 23.6 points per game, Mitchell has been a key offensive weapon for Cleveland. (foxsports.com)
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Darius Garland (Cavaliers): Contributing 16.4 points and 6.1 assists per game, Garland's playmaking is vital to the Cavaliers' success. (foxsports.com)
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Stephen Curry (Warriors): Despite recent injuries, Curry remains a formidable scorer, leading the Warriors with 27.9 points per game. (foxsports.com)
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Draymond Green (Warriors): Known for his defensive prowess, Green's presence is crucial for the Warriors, especially in the absence of other key players.
Key Matchups & Storylines
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Cavaliers' Offense vs. Warriors' Defense: Cleveland's high-scoring offense will test Golden State's defensive capabilities, especially with the Warriors' recent struggles.
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Injury Impact: The Warriors' injuries, particularly to Curry and Green, could significantly affect their performance against a healthy Cavaliers squad.
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Playoff Positioning: Both teams are aiming for favorable playoff positions, making this game a potential tiebreaker in the standings.
Fun Facts
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Cavaliers' Hot Start: Cleveland became the first team in NBA history to win their first 10 games and score at least 110 points in each of them. (espn.com.au)
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Warriors' Home Performance: Golden State holds an 8-7 record at home, indicating challenges in defending their home court. (foxsports.com)
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Curry's Scoring Prowess: Stephen Curry continues to lead the Warriors with an average of 27.9 points per game, showcasing his scoring ability. (foxsports.com)
Things to Chirp About
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"Can the Cavaliers' offense keep up their high-scoring ways against the Warriors?"
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"How will the Warriors adjust without Curry and Green in the lineup?"
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"Is this the game the Warriors turn their season around?"
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"Will the Cavaliers' defense be able to contain Curry if he plays?"
Prediction
Given the Cavaliers' strong offensive performance and the Warriors' recent injury challenges, the Cavaliers are likely to secure a victory at home. However, if Curry returns to the lineup, the game could be more competitive. Overall, Cleveland's depth and cohesion give them the edge in this matchup.