We’ve got our first Game 7 in the NBA Playoffs! The Orlando Magic will face the Cleveland Cavaliers in a pivotal matchup to decide who advances into the second round of the NBA Playoffs. Therefore, we asked our AI Model what was the best bet for you to play at top-rated sportsbooks. It’s come through.
For more of our betting analysis, check out:
NBA Pick
- Cavaliers ML (-165) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
Orlando Magic vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
Sunday, May 05, 2024 – 01:00 PM ET at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse
Our AI Model suggests the Cavaliers will defeat the Orlando Magic, 101-98, as -165 favorites.
The Home Team Keeps Winning
The home team has won in the first six games of the series. If that trend continues in Game 7, the Cleveland Cavaliers will survive the first round and play the Boston Celtics in the East Semifinals.
Last time out, the Magic defeated the Cavaliers, 103-96, after another really good defensive effort. The defense has been incredible all series. However, on the road, the Cavaliers have had more success offensively against the Magic.
Meanwhile, the Magic have struggled to find consistency offensively on the road. Orlando scored no more than 93.5 points per 100 possessions in two of the three road games against Cleveland this year.
No Jarrett Allen
The Cavaliers might not have Jarrett Allen for Game 7. Allen is questionable with a rib injury that he suffered earlier in the series. He sat out for Games 5 and 6 and has been missed ever since.
Allen averaged 17 points with 13.8 rebounds per game with Cleveland. His defensive presence was key, but his offensive output was also really good for Cleveland.
It’s a Stars League
In the playoffs, Donovan Mitchell has averaged 27 points per game after a 50-piece in a loss to the Magic in Game 6. Mitchell has shot 47% from the field but only 25% from downtown. At home, he’s shot weak numbers from downtown, but in a win-or-go-home situation, Mitchell will likely shoot better from the floor. He’ll just ride the momentum from Game 6.
On the other hand, Paolo Banchero will look to help the Magic to victory. He’s added 25.2 points per game in this series for Orlando and scored 39 points in Game 5 against the Cavaliers on the road.
He’s been a bit more consistent from the field, but Mitchell has more of the experience in these big moments.
The Pick
Therefore, while the AI Model and I both think the game will be close, I’m in agreement that the Cavaliers will eventually win the game outright.
NBA Pick: Cavaliers ML (-165) at Bet365
*The line and/or odds referenced in this article might have changed since the content was published. For the latest information on line movements, visit OddsTrader’s free betting odds tool.
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