The No. 4 Cleveland Cavaliers will face off against the No. 5 Orlando Magic in the first round of the 2024 NBA Playoffs in the Eastern Conference. Cleveland was in this exact spot a year ago and lost in five games, while Orlando is making a return to the playoffs for the first time since the 2020 bubble.
Here’s a look at our favorite series props for the matchup, with odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook.
Cavaliers vs. Magic series props
Cavaliers to win series 4-2 (+500)
As detailed here, I believe the Cavaliers have more experience and the best player in the series in Donovan Mitchell. Even though the Magic have two talented youngsters in Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, it’s hard to envision them taking over this series. Both teams are excellent defensively but the Cavaliers have been through some of the growing pains the Magic haven’t experienced yet. Orlando is a talented bunch and should take a few games but I see Cleveland ultimately getting the job done and winning Game 6 to secure the series.
Cavaliers -1.5 games series spread (+125)
Unless you believe the Magic will win the series or they will force Game 7, this is a great value bet. The Cavaliers have been excellent at home this season and Orlando struggled on the road, so Cleveland should be able to start out the series strong. That’ll put more pressure on this young Magic team which is in the playoffs for the first time with this core. While Orlando should be able to grab a game or two, I think Cleveland’s experience overwhelms the Magic as the series goes on. I have the Cavaliers winning in six games but they could wrap it up a game earlier if they steal either Game 3 or 4 in Orlando.
Cavaliers to win Game 1/Cavaliers to win series (-105)
If you’re not feeling the series spread or the exact series score, this is probably the most bankable series prop if you believe Cleveland will win. The Cavaliers seem to finally be healthy and will be looking to prove they are better than last year’s playoff debacle. I expect them to come out strong Saturday and win Game 1. While I don’t think the Magic will fold completely, they don’t have the playoff experience necessary to take down a team like Cleveland that went through the growing pains a year ago and is more prepared.