Eastern Conference Playoff Parlay – Magic vs. Cavaliers

With a commanding 3 to 1 lead over the Cleveland Cavaliers, the big question in Thursday night’s Eastern Conference Finals is whether or not the Magic has what it takes to close the deal.

Orlando needs to go out and play as if they believe they have to win Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals. If Orlando can do it, then they will be able to take the confidence that they can finish a team into the NBA Finals.

For Cleveland, showing up is the key. They have little chance of actually beating three games in a row, but winning Game 5 leads to a Game 6. Nobody knows what might happen in a Game 7.

Let’s analyze the best NBA Playoff Parlay on Thursday night.

NBA Playoff Parlay: Orlando Magic vs. Cleveland Cavaliers

Game-day: 5/28/2009

Game-time: 8:30 pm est.

Point Spread: Orlando +7 ½

BetOnline Total: 190

Analysis: The Orlando Magic have dominated Cleveland in practically all four of the games the two teams have played so far in this series. Cleveland just doesn’t have the talent to match up with the Magic.

So, the key in this game is to determine whether or not the Magic will be on their toes and ready to end this series and take their game to the NBA Finals. If Orlando can beat Cleveland, then they become the favorites to win the NBA Finals no matter if they face the Lakers or the Nuggets. Why? Because by beating Cleveland on the road in a Game 5 they will have proven to NBA fans that they have what it takes to be champions.

Even if Orlando doesn’t win this game, 7 ½ points is just too much. The Magic will keep this game close, like they did in Game 2. Should they lose, it will be by only 4 or 5 points max.

As far as the BetOnline Total is concerned, the over looks like the bet. Three out of the four games played so far in this series has gone over the total.

The lone under game was Orlando’s 10 point victory over the Cavs in Game 3. I don’t see either team winning by that many points. So, the game should go over the total of 190.

Pick: Orlando Magic at +7 ½ to the over 190