The NBA playoffs are officially in full swing! This Eastern Conference playoff clash features a matchup between the #5 Orlando Magic and the #4 Cleveland Cavaliers. This series is even at 2-2, after both teams dominated in their home games but faltered on the road. Cleveland will aim to maintain that pattern here.
Before Betting on Magic vs Cavaliers
Orlando lost the first two games of this series by an average score of 97-85, looking completely lost on offense. They headed home in Game 3 needing a spark, and found a whole blaze. They stormed ahead to a 121-83 victory to the delight of the home crowd in Orlando, before posting another impressive 112-89 win in Game 4.
The Magic’s superstars supported each other in their two home wins. In Game 3, Franz Wagner struggled, while Paolo Banchero exploded for 31 points and 14 rebounds. In Game 4 it was Banchero’s turn to cool off, while Wagner racked up 34 points and 13 rebounds. Orlando needs to maintain their red-hot play as they head back to Cleveland for Game 5.
Meanwhile, the Cavaliers were stunned by their poor performances in the last two games, after holding Orlando below 90 points in the first two games. Their offense has been tremendously concerning, with both Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland shooting ineffectively from the field.
Cleveland’s defense held off Orlando at home in the first two games, but they need an offensive spark to avoid falling behind 3-2 in this series. The Magic have overwhelmed Cleveland defensively, making it difficult for them to keep up. The Cavaliers shot just 43% from the field in Game 3 and 4 combined.
Magic vs Cavaliers Offshore Odds
It’s a bit surprising to see the Cavaliers so heavily favored after losing the last two games by a combined 62 points. While it’s true that the home team has dominated all four games so far, and the Cavs return home here, I’m not sure if that is the most important factor. Orlando’s two wins being more recent could also be an indication that they adjusted and figured out their early troubles. The Magic have favorable odds here.
