Cleveland Cavaliers (48-34) vs. Orlando Magic (47-35)
Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Orlando Magic Game 3 4/25/24 – The first round of the NBA Playoffs is heating up as the Cleveland Cavaliers, with a record of 48-34, prepare to face off against the Orlando Magic, who finished the season at 47-35. This critical Game 3 is set for Thursday, April 25, 2024, tipping off at 7:00 PM ET at the Kia Center. With both teams closely matched in their regular season records, this matchup promises to be an electrifying contest in the race for the championship. As playoff tensions build, this game becomes a crucial juncture for both squads. Fans looking for the best free NBA Playoff tips should keep a close eye on this evenly poised battle.
The Cavaliers have indeed shown that on average they have 112.6 points per game shooting from the field at 47.9%. Their outstanding capability of delivering a high volume of baskets from beyond the arc (13.5 three-point field goals per game), makes them a very dangerous opponent. Yet it is a matter of concern that on the road, they are 19-21 against spread and loss by two games. This has been, at times inconsistent, especially in their struggle to keep their squad’s defensive and offensive formations balanced under differing court advantages.
On the contrary, the Orlando Magic has also consistently demonstrated their competitive streak scoring 110.5 point per game on average. They have done this by shooting at a slightly lower percentage than the Cavaliers at 47.6 % but have more free throw attempts, indicating more frequent fouls being drawn on aggressive plays. As for the road game performance against the spread for The Magic, it is slightly better at 23-18 which might come in handy in the upcoming game, especially when the team is particularly strong under pressure away from the home arena.
Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Orlando Magic Game 3 4/25/24 Game Info
| When: | Thursday, April 25, 2024, at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Kia Center |
| TV: | NBAt |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Donovan Mitchell (SG) vs. Paolo Banchero (PF)
The Cavaliers have a man in Donovan Mitchell who has performed incredibly well this season. In his 55 appearances, he has garnered 26.6 points per game on average. He has also given the team a much-needed lift with his 5.1 rebounds and 6.1 assists. His stealing the ball 1.8 per game is one of his defensive game qualities. Nevertheless, his turnover rate of 2.8 per game can be a turning point, as the Magic will get more chances to counterattack.
Paolo Banchero has been equally great for the Magic, appearing in every game they played at 80. He averaged 22.6 points and 6.9 boards per game, which proves he had influence in not only scoring but also rebounding. His assist-to-turnover ratio is 1.7, one of the highest among all starters, which implies that he might be the player who can hold the possession in the playoff match.
When the matchup of these critical players becomes important, the game might very well ride on their performances. With Mitchell’s ability to shoot from anywhere and Banchero’s all-court play, this relationship is sure to bring out the best in both players. Their contribution to the game will be incredibly huge, since either of them can put their team to the upper hand.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: Cleveland Cavaliers -105, Total Odds: 199.5
The current betting odds are finely balanced, with the Magic slightly favored at -1.5 on the spread. The total set at 199.5 points suggests expectations of a moderately high-scoring game, consistent with both teams’ scoring averages.
Cleveland Cavaliers Betting Trends
The Cleveland Cavaliers played great basketball throughout the season but you don’t need to look far to see they have certain weaknesses, especially their 2-3 loss in the last five matches both as the favorite and underdogs. The fact that they’ve gone OVER the total in 3/5 of their recent games tells a lot; their games have been high-scoring, most likely due to defensive issues.
Orlando Magic Betting Trends
Also, the Magic have taken over the form of the Cavaliers where they managed to win 2 of their last 5 games both straight up and as per the spread. They usually get close to the margin, as OVER was cashed by over bettors in 3 of their last 5 basketball games, which may create an opportunity.
Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Orlando Magic 4/25/24 Betting Picks
Given the close nature of this matchup and recent performances, this game could go either way. However, the Magic’s better performance against the spread in road games this season gives them a slight edge.
Considering the strengths and recent trends of both teams, a prediction might favor a tight game with the Magic possibly pulling off a narrow win. An OVER on the total points might be a wise choice, given the scoring abilities of both teams. Given these dynamics, those seeking the handicapper’s best insights would do well to consider these angles for a potentially profitable betting strategy.
Free Pick and Prediction: Orlando Magic 105, Cleveland Cavaliers 102.