Orlando Magic (47-35) vs. Cleveland Cavaliers (48-34)
Orlando Magic vs. Cleveland Cavaliers 4/20/24 – As the NBA Playoffs heat up, the Orlando Magic and Cleveland Cavaliers face off in the first round on April 20, 2024. This matchup is set to be a thrilling contest as the Magic, with a 47-35 record, take on the slightly superior 48-34 Cavaliers. Both teams have had their ups and downs throughout the season but will look to capitalize on this opportunity. The game will be held at the Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse and promises to be a spectacle, drawing attention from fans eager for no-cost NBA Playoff selections. With each team looking to advance to the next round, tensions will be high and the gameplay intense.
The Orlando Magic’s season was characterized by steady scoring, averaging 110.5 points per game with a good field goal percentage of 47.6%. They did it by mastering beyond the arc, snatching an average of 11 three-pointers per game at a 35.2% rate. The rebounding is strong, averaging 42.3 a game, reinforced by the offensive rebounds which were won on average of 10.5 per game. This center-of-gravity strength may be what it takes to provide the necessary follow-up to Cavs. Nevertheless, turnovers have been an alarming point of consideration and the team has been averaging 13.8 per game, which they need to reduce to get themselves the playoffs.
The Cleveland Cavaliers have slightly edged out the Magic in terms of points this season, scoring an average of 112.6 points per game. They have outperformed the opponent slightly in the field goal shooting, finishing with the percentage of 47.9 and a 3-points shooting percentage of 36.7. The Cavaliers are skilled at passing as well, having 28 assists per game; this could prove to be a decisive factor in the Magic’s airtight defense. They are better on the defensive side of the ball, getting more rebounds, with 43.3 per game and having less turnovers 12.7 per game, a characteristic that may be their edge in a playoff atmosphere because it is more controlled.
Orlando Magic vs. Cleveland Cavaliers 4/20/24 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, April 20, 2024, at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Paolo Banchero (PF) vs. Jarrett Allen (C)
Paolo Banchero remains the leading scorer for the Magic with the average of 22.6 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.4 assists. His versatility to play in various positions have been potent to the magic team. But on the other hand, his 3.1 turnovers per game might become a flaw which have to be managed cautiously, for example: against a formidable defensive team such as the Cavaliers. Stretching the Cavs with his versatility as a forward will be of tremendous help for Banchero.
Jarrett Allen has been the Cavaliers’ anchor in the paint with an average of 10.5 boards a game and contributing 16.5 points a game as well. His presence down-low, be it attacking or defending, will go a long way. Allen’s skill to tweak shots and become more dominant on the boards may negate Banchero’s inside presence.
The main contention of the match will be between Banchero and Allen in which both players can set the direction of the game by their performances. We can definitely see their effect on the team, especially in crunch time which might be the decisive factor in this playoff game.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: Cleveland Cavaliers -186, Total Odds: 207
The betting odds favor the Cavaliers slightly, reflecting their better season record and home advantage. The point spread sets the Cavaliers as 4.5-point favorites, a testament to their strong finish to the season and balanced team performance. Bettors might find value in considering the total points for this game, as both teams have had a tendency to go over in recent games.
Orlando Magic Betting Trends
A Magic team battled a little of the spread lately, winning only two of the last five encounters. Nevertheless, a 23-18 record against the spread in the away games shows that their performance improves in the home surroundings.
Cleveland Cavaliers Betting Trends
Along with the Magic, the Cavaliers too have a 2-3 record against the spread in the last five games. Although not as great on the road spread, their home record has been outstanding.
Orlando Magic vs. Cleveland Cavaliers 4/20/24 Betting Picks
With these statistics analyzed and recent events in mind, this game is likely to be a tight one. The Magic may be on the right side of the score regardless who will win, and thus providing a good pick for bettors who are hunting values. When coming to the total points, concretely, over 207 points is likely to happen due to both team’s recent trends.
In conclusion, while the Cavaliers are favorites, the Magic’s resilience should not be underestimated. For those seeking premium picks and insights, betting on the Magic to cover and the total going over appears to be a promising choice.
Free Pick and Prediction: Cleveland Cavaliers 112, Orlando Magic 110.