Cavs vs. Magic live score updates, highlights, prediction: Game 3 is tonight in Orlando
As the NBA first-round playoff series between the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Orlando Magic shifts to Orlando, the Cavs will put their rediscovered defensive identity to the test in Thursday night's Game 3.
The Cavs lead the series 2-0, and have led wire to wire in both Games 1 and 2 thus far. The Magic have been held to under 86 points in both games, but they were also a much different — and better — team at home during the regular season than away from Orlando.
The Magic were a mediocre 18-23 on the road this season but were 29-12 at home, giving them some of the most extreme home-away splits in the league. Their offensive and defensive ratings were also nearly 10 points better on both offense and defense at home.
Check back here for live updates and analysis throughout Game 3.
Dean Wade injury will keep him out of entire Orlando Magic series
The Cavs were hoping they might be able to see forward Dean Wade during this series, but that won't be happening.
Wade has been ruled out for at least the remainder of the series with a right knee sprain that has kept him sidelined since March 13. A recent MRI revealed he'll need more time before returning to the floor.
What time do the Cavs play tonight?
Game 3 is at 7 p.m. Thursday in Orlando. Game 4 also will be in Orlando, with a start time of 1 p.m. Saturday.
What channel is the Cleveland Cavaliers game on tonight?
The Cavs-Magic game is on Bally Sports Ohio in the Cleveland market. Outside the Cleveland market, the game is on NBA TV.
Cavs vs. Magic prediction
With the series shifting to Orlando, our Ryan Lewis and Nate Ulrich look for the Magic to bounce back on their home floor and win Game 3. For more on why they see the Cavs series lead being cut to 2-1, please read more here.
Looking back at the Cavaliers' 97-83 win over the Orlando Magic in Game 1
Here is our coverage from Game 1:
Donovan Mitchell's ferocious Game 1 dunk gives Cavs a jolt, allays concerns about his knee
Cavs vs Magic: Cleveland Cavaliers grind out victory in Game 1 of NBA playoff series
Look back at the Cavaliers' 96-86 win over the Orlando Magic in Game 2
Here is our coverage from Game 2:
'He's unbelievable': Jarrett Allen is playing like an MVP in the playoffs
Let's discuss the 'little things' the Cavs are doing well | Nate Ulrich column
'Moment and purpose': The Cavs have rediscovered their defensive identity in the playoffs
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Cavs scores vs Magic live updates Game 3 of NBA playoffs
