Despite winning only four out of eight games this year, leaders Juventus have opened a six-point gap over second-placed Napoli who have scored only one goal while drawing their last three league games.
It is no coincidence Napoli's loss of form has come at the same time as a six-match sequence without a goal for Uruguay forward Cavani, their talismanic striker who is on the radar of Europe's richest clubs.
Cavani has failed to hit the target at all in February, including two Europa League ties against Viktoria Plzen, but remains Serie A's top scorer with 18 goals.
"Psychologically it could be decisive," midfielder Valon Behrami told Napoli's website.
"It will give us an idea of who we are and what we can do this season. They have six points more than us and are experienced and confident."
"It won't be decisive as far as the destiny of the title is concerned," said midfielder Stephan Lichtsteiner. "There will still be 11 games remaining after it.
"I know what the atmosphere will be like at the San Paolo but I'm not worried by it. We'll just have to react to it like we did in Glasgow against Celtic," he said referring to their 3-0 win in the Champions League earlier this month.
"They are an excellent side and it's difficult for anyone to play at the Stadio San Paolo. It won't be easy," added Lichtsteiner.
Only the top two teams qualify directly for next season's Champions League group stage while third place earns a berth in the final qualifying round.
