The two teams could end up needing a full series to separate them given what has happened already. 

But, with Game 5 the immediate concern on Thursday, April 30, at 10:30 AEST, there’s value worth exploring in this one…

Quick Picks

Our pick: Raptors to win

Value bet: Harden to have over 2.5 threes-made

Long shot: Jarrett Allen to score the First Basket

Betting Preview

The first-round series between these two teams has seen both teams have positive moments.

The Cleveland Cavaliers managed to take a 2-0 lead after the first two games, but then the Toronto Raptors managed to pull it back with back-to-back wins.

What’s worth noting is that the Playoffs have gone with the home side so far.

Now, with the Cavs set to play Game 5 at home and potentially Game 7, if this trend continues, they may fancy their chances against the Raptors.

For Toronto, it’s going to be a case of bucking the trend. Will they do it in this game?

Interestingly, before the two teams started the Eastern Conference Playoffs, the Raptors had won each of the three regular-season meetings this year.

Two of those were in Cleveland, with 112-101 and 126-113 wins; the game in Toronto ended 110-99. Still, it’s perhaps worth noting that these games were in the early stages of the campaign.

In the playoffs, the following results occurred:

• Game 1: Cavs won 126-113
• Game 2: Cavs won 115-105
• Game 3: Raptors won 126-104
• Game 4: Raptors won 93-89

Betting Markets to Watch

When looking at the available betting odds, the Cavs are big opening favourites.

Indeed, given the stat that the Cavaliers have won each of their nine previous playoff home games against the Raptors, it’s perhaps why the odds are as short as they are.

However, Toronto know something must change if they are to advance to the Conference semi-finals, and they have recent experience of winning in Ohio.

We think this means there’s value in their moneyline worth exploring.

For extra value, we think it’s likely James Harden will make over 2.5 threes in the game. He has made three or more three-pointers in each of his last four home appearances and is one of the best in the game.

Our Prediction

Check the latest NBA Cavs vs Raptors betting odds at Sportsbet.

We think the Raptors are likely to win this game, as they are on a two-game winning streak and know this is almost a must-win for them.

For long shot value, we’re going with the Jarrett Allen - First Basket market. He has scored the first basket in each of the Cavaliers' last three home games against the Raptors.